CIH Northern Ireland welcomes the removal of intimidation points from housing allocations

Justin Cartwright, national director of CIH Northern Ireland, said: "The decision announced today by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to remove intimidation points from the Housing Selection Scheme is a significant step towards a more equitable and just housing system.

"We have long campaigned for the removal of these points, recognising that the current system has placed an undue emphasis on certain forms of violence, such as those with sectarian or racist motivations, while overlooking the devastating impact of other forms of violence, including domestic abuse. This created an unacceptable hierarchy of violence.

"The current system awards significantly more points to individuals who have experienced intimidation due to terrorism, racism or sectarianism than to those who have experienced domestic violence. This disparity is not only unjust but also potentially open to abuse.

"The removal of these points will ensure that all victims of violence, regardless of the cause, are treated with equal dignity and receive appropriate support in accessing safe and secure housing. This move aligns with the principles of fairness and equality that should underpin all housing allocation decisions.

"We welcome this important reform and urge the Department for Communities to continue to review and refine the housing selection scheme to ensure it effectively meets the needs of all those experiencing housing stress in Northern Ireland."

Click here to view the statement from the Department for Communities: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-announces-removal-intimidation-points-housing-selection-scheme