WOMEN AND CHILDREN SUFFERING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND THE BENEFIT CAP

That this House welcomes the petition by Women Against Rape calling on the Government to put the safety of women and children first by lifting the benefit cap so they are not trapped in violent relationships where they risk injury, trauma and even death; deplores that mothers and children fleeing domestic violence are impoverished by the cap after rent is paid, including in social housing, and are sometimes left with nil income; further deplores that even Child Benefit and many refuges and hostels for vulnerable women are not exempted from the cap; notes that many such families are forced to rely on discretionary housing payments from their local council which are temporary and uncertain; considers it unacceptable that local councils be expected to make up for cuts in national social security benefits; further notes that many victims of violence are unable to find a job immediately or to move to a cheaper area, and need time to recover and reassure distressed children, close to supportive friends and relatives; and calls on the Government to lift the cap to protect current and future potential victims of domestic violence.