At MSB, our Family Law and Social Housing & Regeneration teams often work closely to support individuals and families facing some of life’s most difficult circumstances. That’s why we jointly welcome the recent government announcement that, from 10 July 2025, care leavers and survivors of domestic abuse will now have easier access to social housing, removing the requirement for a local connection to the area. This change follows the same relaxation of the local connection rules allowed for armed forces veterans last year. 

From a family law perspective, we see all too often the trauma experienced by those leaving abusive relationships or moving on from the care system. For survivors of domestic abuse, securing a safe and stable home is often the first step in escaping abuse. Yet, many of our clients have faced a heartbreaking choice: stay in an unsafe environment or face the uncertainty of homelessness or temporary accommodation. 

This change removes a key barrier. Survivors will no longer need to prove a local connection to a specific area to be considered for social housing – something that has previously delayed access to safe homes. It’s a recognition that safety and security must come first. For care leavers, who often lack a strong support network or a fixed place to call home, this new approach offers a stronger foundation from which to begin adulthood with confidence. 

From the Social Housing and Regeneration Team’s viewpoint, this change represents a significant and necessary shift in policy. Removing local restrictions will give Registered Providers a greater role in providing homes to those who need them most. It will also require a proactive, compassionate approach to tenancy support, something that MSB’s clients and team advocate for. 

Customers who are rehoused in areas they don’t know will need help integrating into new communities. That means RPs will have to consider reasonable adjustments and enhanced support, from helping individuals navigate unfamiliar services to signposting them to local support networks. These practical steps can make a lasting difference in helping someone sustain a tenancy and feel part of their new community. 

There will, of course, be challenges. Data sharing across local authority boundaries may prove complex, particularly when trying to understand the background and needs of a new tenant. We would strongly encourage Registered Providers to work closely with referring local authorities at the point of nomination. Putting proper data sharing agreements in place and gaining insight into which support agencies are already involved with an individual and whether their local boundary restrictions will allow them to remain in place after the tenant moves, will be vital in creating tailored, wraparound support. 

We also welcome further government proposals that aim to strengthen this support framework, including additional funding for safe accommodation for domestic abuse survivors, and investment via the Affordable Homes Programme to increase the number of social homes available. The current shortage of affordable, quality housing remains a pressing issue. Without the homes in place to meet rising demand, even the most well-intentioned policy changes risk falling short. 

This is why we believe a joined-up, collaborative approach is essential. Housing providers, local authorities, legal professionals, and support agencies must come together to ensure that the most vulnerable are not just given housing, but given the chance to thrive. 

Ultimately, this change is about more than housing policy – it’s about people. It’s about recognising that survivors of domestic abuse and those leaving care need more than just a roof over their heads. They need safety, stability, and the appropriate support to rebuild. 

As legal professionals who regularly support clients through crises and transitions, we see this as a hopeful and progressive step. But it must be backed by continued investment, cross-sector collaboration, and a shared commitment to protecting and empowering those most in need. 

At MSB, we remain dedicated to playing our part – advocating for the vulnerable, supporting Registered Providers, and helping to shape a housing system that puts people first.