New legal measures designed to protect victims of domestic abuse and help them remain in their homes have come into effect in Scotland. The Scottish Government emphasized the need to eliminate domestic violence from society as these provisions were introduced.

Under the new rules, social landlords, subject to meeting specific criteria, can apply to the courts for an order to end a tenancy held by an abuser. This authority enables landlords to transfer the tenancy directly to the victim where it is safe and the victim wishes to remain in the property. The legislation aims to offer greater housing security to survivors of domestic abuse, many of whom are women.

Simita Kumar, the Scottish Government’s Equalities Minister, encouraged social landlords to actively use these new powers. She highlighted that the majority of domestic abuse victims are women and that many remain trapped in violent situations due to a lack of safe housing options. Kumar described the provisions as a crucial tool to help protect vulnerable individuals and support their recovery.

Dr Marsha Scott, Chief Executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, welcomed the changes, noting that allowing abusive behaviour to serve as grounds for eviction would help reduce homelessness among women and children affected by domestic abuse. She said enabling survivors to keep their homes while mandating that abusers leave will improve safety and stability for many households.

The introduction of these legal protections reflects ongoing efforts by the Scottish Government and partner organizations to address domestic violence and its consequences. By focusing on housing security, the new measures seek to disrupt the cycle of abuse and provide victims with a firmer foundation for rebuilding their lives.