Domestic Abuse Victims Can Now Transfer Social Housing Waiting List Time

Victims and survivors of domestic abuse can now transfer time spent on a social housing waiting list to another local authority. This reform, introduced by Minister for Housing James Browne, follows consultations with local authorities and Cuan, the state agency addressing domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence.

The National Women’s Council of Ireland and Women’s Aid had previously raised concerns that losing a place on a housing list deterred women from escaping abusive situations. Under the new protocol, applicants with an active social housing support application can apply to another local authority and retain their original qualification date. They must meet eligibility criteria in the receiving authority and provide evidence of abuse.

Receiving local authorities can waive local connection requirements discretionarily. Original applications will close upon new transfer completion. Each local authority will appoint a designated contact point for coordination. The Department of Housing will monitor the protocol's implementation immediately through quarterly data returns.