The SNP has this week launched a new £1 million “Fund to Leave”, a scheme that will support up to 1200 women and children, including in North Ayrshire, to escape abusive relationships this year.
Domestic abuse is the leading cause of homelessness for women in Scotland. The new fund will provide urgent financial help to ensure that women and their families are not trapped in danger because they cannot afford to leave. The fund will allow women to purchase essentials and offer breathing space while they navigate the social security system.
Alongside this, the SNP has also announced major new measures to support those at greatest risk of homelessness, including:
- £4 million this year to expand Housing First, giving people with multiple and complex needs a settled home alongside tailored support.
- Incentivising registered social landlords to acquire suitable properties and pledge additional Housing First tenancies through a £3 million capital grant.
- A £1 million Housing First uplift to Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan funding in 2025-26.
- £500,000 for winter preparedness measures, helping ensure people have a safe and suitable place to stay during the coldest months.
The SNP has made clear: only with independence can Scotland escape Westminster austerity and fully fund the progressive, life-saving policies vulnerable communities in Scotland deserve.
Commenting, Ruth Maguire MSP said:
“No woman should be forced to choose between living in fear or facing homelessness. Yet this is the reality far too many women in North Ayrshire face. The SNP Government is taking real, practical action to change that.
“While the SNP acts to give survivors independence, Labour at Westminster continues to inflict welfare cuts and austerity that deepen inequality and trap women in dangerous situations.
“This new Fund to Leave will give women the support they need to walk away from abuse with dignity and safety. Alongside our investment in Housing First, rapid rehousing and winter support, it’s proof that when you put Scotland’s future in Scotland’s hands, we deliver progressive policies that protect the most vulnerable.”
Ruth Maguire MSP (SNP) 