The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 says that safe accommodation can include refuge accommodation, specialist safe accommodation for individuals with protected characteristics and dispersed safe accommodation, which is defined as:
- Safe (secure and dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse), self-contained accommodation with the same level of specialist domestic abuse support as provided within a refuge but which may be more suitable for victims who are unable to stay in a refuge.
- Safe (secure and dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse), self-contained ‘semi-independent’ accommodation which is not within a refuge but with support for victims who may not require the intensive support offered through refuge and are still at risk of abuse from their perpetrator(s).
- Sanctuary Schemes – properties with local authority installed Sanctuary Schemes or other similar schemes, which provide enhanced physical security measures within a home. A Sanctuary Scheme is a survivor centred initiative which aims to make it possible for victims of domestic abuse to remain in their own homes, where it is safe and their choice to do so.
- Move-on and / or second stage accommodation – these are interchangeable terms for projects temporarily accommodating victims, including families who no longer need the intensive level of support provided in a refuge,
but would still benefit from a lower level of domestic abuse specific support.- Other accommodation designated by the local housing authority, registered social landlord or registered charity as domestic abuse emergency accommodation– i.e. a safe place with support. To give victims an opportunity to spend a temporary period of time to make decisions in an environment which is self-contained and safe.