Domestic Abuse Victims: New Emergency Protection Orders and Housing Rights Become Law

Comprehensive new legal protections for victims of domestic abuse have come into force today, including emergency protection orders that can be granted within hours, automatic housing rights, and ten days of paid leave for survivors.

The new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders can be issued by magistrates within 24 hours of an application without the victim needing to be present in court. Police will have the power to apply for these orders directly, meaning victims do not need to navigate the legal system alone.

Local authorities will be required to treat victims as priority need for homelessness assistance, and victims will have the right to remain in a jointly tenanted property while the alleged perpetrator is excluded.

Employees experiencing domestic abuse will be entitled to ten days of paid leave per year, separate from sick leave and annual leave. The government estimates approximately 1.4 million people experience domestic abuse in England and Wales each year.

The Domestic Abuse Commissioner said: These protections will save lives. The ability to get an emergency order within hours, the security of knowing you won't be made homeless, and the right to paid leave are the practical changes that make it possible for victims to escape abuse.