What you told us and what we're doing

What we asked

We asked tenants, housing applicants, organisations and partners to review our draft Domestic Abuse Policy and tell us what they think. The policy explains how we help people who are experiencing domestic abuse.

What you said

139 people took part in the consultation. Most responses (97%) were from individuals, including:

• 64% Moray Council tenants
• 13% housing association tenants
• 22% members of the public in private rented or owned homes

From the responses:

• 91% supported the draft policy
• 91% found it easy to read and understand
• 8% felt something should be reworded
• 15% felt something was missing
• 5% felt something should be removed

A significant 74% of responses came from people with lived experience of domestic abuse (survivors or friends/family supporting survivors). Their feedback highlighted:

• The need for trauma‑informed, sensitive communication
• Named contacts and clearer guidance
• Stronger joint working with partners
• Faster access to safe housing options and practical safety measures
• Consistent, specialist staff training

What we did

Overall, the policy was very well received. No major changes were required.

We made:

• Some small changes to wording to make things clearer.
• We updated the policy to include new laws that help remove perpetrators from a home if needed.

The wider consultation feedback will be used to shape:

• Operational procedures
• Staff training
• How we communicate and provide information

This will make sure our approach is trauma‑informed, person‑centred and responsive.

What's new in the policy

The policy introduces a clear framework for responding to domestic abuse. It includes:

• Support to help survivors remain safely in their home where possible
• Clearer routes for accessing safe housing options, including transfers and temporary accommodation
• Stronger action against perpetrators, including removing tenancy rights
• A commitment to trauma‑informed practice and person‑centred support
• Better partnership working with Police Scotland, Women’s Aid, health and other agencies
• Enhanced staff training and clear guidance to ensure consistent responses

Next steps

The Domestic Abuse Policy was approved for implementation by elected members at the meeting of the Housing and Community Safety Committee on 12 March 2026. You can read the report presented to Committee here.

The new policy will start on 1 April 2026.

We will:

• Keep tenants and applicants informed of the new policy
• Update our information and website
• Provide staff training
• Put supporting procedures in place
• Make information available in easy‑read and other accessible formats

The new Domestic Abuse Policy will be published on our Housing Policies webpage.