Removing a barrier to fleeing abuse

Wednesday 17 July 2024

Survivors of domestic abuse who don't usually qualify for income support because of residency or visa restrictions will now be able to receive immediate assistance to help them leave abusive relationships.

Introduced by the Social Security Minister following recommendations from a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) report, the new policy aims to address what has been cited as a key barrier that previously prevented people from escaping abusive situations.

Under the system, funding will be granted to individuals including newcomers to the island who have not met the five-year residency requirement as well as those with certain visa conditions.

The assistance provided is equivalent to Income Support rates, covering living and accommodation costs for the applicant and any dependent children.

Pictured: Social Security Minister Deputy Lyndsay Feltham. 

“This support will be provided under Article 8 of the Income Support Law and will be available to any person who requests it and is being supported by JDAS [Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support] or FREEDA [formerly Jersey Women's Refuge]," the Minister, Deputy Lyndsey Feltham, explained.

Applications will be processed by the Customer and Local Services Safeguarding Team.

While the policy was influenced by the VAWG report focused on women and girls, the new support also be available to men and boys who are subject to abuse.