Domestic Abuse Bill: Liberal Democrats in House of Lords fighting to protect and support survivors

The Liberal Democrats have tabled amendments to the Domestic Abuse Bill as it starts Report Stage at the House of Lords on International Women's Day.

The amendments, which will be debated over the three days of report stage, include:

Calling for priority school places for children who are forced to change schools as a result of domestic abuse.
Ensuring children who have had to move due to domestic abuse do not receive delays to their NHS treatment.
Requiring the Secretary of State to issue a code of practice designed to ensure that people affected by domestic abuse who are workers receive appropriate care and support from their employer.
Lib Dem Peers will also support key cross-party amendments, including increased protection for migrant women who are survivors of domestic abuse.

Baroness Lorely Burt, who is joint lead on the Bill for the Liberal Democrat Lords, commented:

"Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, class, gender, ethnicity, disability, and sexual orientation.

"This Bill has been a long time coming, but Liberal Democrats have worked cross-party across both houses to make this Bill the best that it can be.

"On International Women's Day this year, Liberal Democrats will be fighting to protect and support survivors and their children through the justice system, the immigration system, and through public bodies like housing and health.

"The Domestic Abuse Bill is our once-in-a-generation chance to get it right."