The sanctuary scheme is a range of practical support options to support you to remain in your own home, including -
- a panic alarm in your home - the panic alarm, called Lifeline, is linked to Kingston Care Lifeline services
- a mobile phone or new sim card - to replace an old phone or sim card
- home safety measures installed by Probe -
- fitted window locks
- increased security for doors
- spy hole or intercom
- a personal alarm - for when you leave your home to use in the community
The sanctuary scheme is a free service. To access this support, speak to your support worker or contact the domestic abuse partnership (DAP).
They will complete a safety plan with you, discuss the range of measures available to you and what is appropriate for your situation and need. A safety plan will also be created with you.
From 1 October 2021, claimants living in the social rented sector will be exempt from the Social Sector Size Criteria (SSSC), commonly known as the Bedroom Tax, if their property has been adapted as part of a sanctuary scheme.
Housing Benefit (HB) and Universal Credit (UC) claimants will now be excluded from the 'Bedroom Tax' if -
- they live in social housing
- the property has been adapted under a sanctuary scheme
- domestic violence has been inflicted on, or threatened against, the claimant or a member of their household by that person's partner, former partner, or by a relative
- the perpetrator does not live at the property (unless they are a qualifying young person who is dependent on a member of the household)
- the claimant provides written evidence from a person who is acting in an official capacity for example -
- police
- social worker
- support worker from a charity or voluntary organisation which supports victims of domestic violence
This exemption is not automatic.
You will need to contact either Housing Benefits team or inform DWP (which can be done through your Universal Credit journal). You will also need to provide written evidence from a person acting in an official capacity.
If you are a Hull City Council tenant and need support in obtaining this exemption, you should contact your Tenancy Officer by calling 01482 300 300.
You can contact us via -
Domestic abuse partnership
Hull City Council
Kingston House
Bond Street
Hull
HU1 3ER
Telephone - 01482 318 759
Text phone - 01482 300 349
Email - Hull.DAP@hullcc.gov.uk