New powers to protect domestic abuse survivors

North Ayrshire Council is highlighting vital new legal powers coming into force on 1 August 2026 that will significantly strengthen housing security for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

​Under the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021, social landlords will now be empowered to apply directly to the courts to end a perpetrator's tenancy rights and transfer the home securely to the victim.

This landmark change removes the legal burden previously placed on survivors, ensuring they can remain safely in familiar surroundings while holding abusers fully accountable.

​Recognising the profound physical, emotional, and financial toll of domestic abuse - which includes coercive control, intimidation, and financial abuse - North Ayrshire Council is committed to ensuring that survivors should continue to live in a stable household.

​Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands, said: “No one should have to choose between their safety and their home. These new regulations will give social landlords new powers to protect victims of domestic abuse and hold perpetrators to account.”

​As both a local authority and a major social landlord, North Ayrshire Council is taking proactive steps to embed these protections locally.

By stepping in to pursue tenancy changes on behalf of tenants of North Ayrshire Council, the Council aims to eliminate barriers that have historically forced victim-survivors to flee their own communities.

​North Ayrshire Council tenants who are currently experiencing domestic abuse are urged to contact their local housing office. Specialist help, confidential guidance, and support services are readily available through North Ayrshire Women’s Aid.

Please contact your local Housing Office or visit the North Ayrshire Council website to find out how we can help keep you safe.

Published: 31 July 2026