Navigating the housing crisis in Nottinghamshire: options for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and abuse

Nottinghamshire is facing a profound housing crisis. In Nottingham City alone, over 10,000 people are on the housing waiting list, with demand outstripping supply. This shortage makes it especially challenging for survivors of domestic and sexual violence to secure safe accommodation.

Added to this, local authorities are dealing with rising costs. Increased prices for building materials and requirements to meet raised safety and energy efficiency standards, pose a challenge whilst there is a halt on borrowing. All of this has significantly reduced the council’s ability to commit to more council house development or acquisitions.

So, given this, what are the housing options for survivors of domestic abuse?

Alternative housing options in Nottinghamshire

Sanctuary – This multi-agency scheme provides tailored security measures that allow survivors to remain in their home safely. By assessing risk, installing locks, alarms, survivors can feel more secure without needing to relocate.
Family and friends – Sometimes, the best immediate solution can be staying with trusted family members or friends. This temporary arrangement can provide the necessary safety and support while a more permanent solution is found.
Private renting – Though it may be more expensive, private rental housing is a viable option for some survivors. Financial assistance through housing benefits or local support schemes can help offset the costs, providing quicker access to safe accommodation.
Refuge – safe, temporary housing that can be shared, self-contained units or dispersed housing in the community. Staff are on hand to give practical and emotional support.
Specialist safe accommodation – accommodation which provides dedicated support to survivors with protected characteristics.
Non-Molestation and Occupation Orders – Legal protection is crucial in ensuring the safety of survivors. A non-molestation order can prevent the abuser from making any form of contact, while an occupation order can legally exclude the abuser from the shared home, allowing the survivor to stay.

To find out more about any of these options, contact Juno Women’s aid (for Nottingham city or south county), Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid (for north county) or equation (for male and LGBTQ+ people in Nottinghamshire and Nottingham city).

Moving forward

Addressing the housing crisis in Nottinghamshire requires a many-sided approach. Whilst local authorities struggle with limited resources, we can help ensure that survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, find safe and secure housing by looking to alternative options.

Collaboration and advocacy are key. Community organisations and local authorities must work together to raise awareness of the differing housing options to those who need it. By promoting these solutions, we can better support survivors in rebuilding their lives.

Marie Bower, Head of Service for Survivors and Perpetrators, Equation said “Our Safe Accommodation Support Service offers high quality support and safety intervention to male and LGBT+ people who are experiencing domestic abuse and who also need support to access safe accommodation. We work in partnership with all housing services to achieve the best possible outcomes for survivors.”

Equation’s Safe Accommodation & Outreach Service Manager and LGBTQ+ Specialist IDVA, Equation said “The decision to flee an abusive relationship is difficult for any survivor, especially if secure accommodation is a worry. Our Safe Accommodation Support Service provides support to survivors to avoid homelessness and aims to ensure they can access secure long-term accommodation where they can live free from abuse.”

Get in touch

Email us at safer-accommodation@equation.org.uk or call 0800 9956 999
We’re here Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, excluding bank holidays. (A 24/7 confidential answerphone service is available outside these times)
Find out more about our domestic abuse service for men