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<p>Domestic abuse is an abhorrent crime that nobody should have to suffer. The Government
is absolutely committed to protecting victims of domestic abuse and their families.</p><p>A
victim of domestic abuse already has priority need under the homelessness legislation
if they are vulnerable as a result of having to leave accommodation because of violence
from another person, or threats of violence from another person that are likely to
be carried out.</p><p>In addition, people who are homeless or owed a duty under the
homelessness legislation must be given reasonable preference (priority) for social
housing. Statutory guidance issued in 2012 goes further and makes it clear that local
authorities should consider giving additional preference (high priority) to those
who are homeless and require urgent rehousing as a result of domestic abuse.</p><p>The
Department has no plans currently to change the definition of priority need or reasonable
preference.</p>
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