In some cases, survivors have been sexually or physically assaulted after councils failed to house them
Domestic violence victims are being forced to keep living with their abusers or live on the streets because councils are failing to house them.
One leading charity told openDemocracy of a case in which a woman had to sleep in her car for two weeks, during which time the council phoned her abusive ex-partner to ask if she could move back in.
More than 10% of investigations into councils’ housing services concerned survivors of domestic abuse, openDemocracy analysis has found.
If you or someone you know is affected by the issues raised in this article, the following organisations can help:
A free, 24-hour confidential helpline for children and young people who need to talk.
Phone: 0800 1111 Website: Childline
For women experiencing domestic abuse, their family, friends and others calling on their behalf.
Phone: 0808 2000 247 Website: The 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Safe, emergency accommodation and emotional and practical support to women and children experiencing domestic abuse.
Website: Refuge
Practical support and information for women experiencing domestic violence via the Survivor's Handbook and local domestic violence services.
Website: Women's Aid
A confidential service for male victims of domestic abuse offering support to help men keep themselves (and their children) safe.
Phone: 0808 801 0327. Website: Men's Advice Line
National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Domestic Violence helpline run by Galop, provides support to LGBT people suffering domestic abuse.
Phone: 0800 999 5428. Website: Galop
Free specialist advocacy and peer support to those bereaved by a death following domestic abuse, including homicide, suicide and unexplained deaths.
Website: AADFA
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