DAHA Policy Response: Restriction Zones for Domestic Abuse Perpetrators
Restriction Zones for Domestic Abuse Perpetrators
The UK Government has announced the introduction of "restriction zones" for serious violent offenders, shifting from victim-limiting exclusion zones to offender-limiting restrictions. Under this model, offenders are confined to specified areas via electronic monitoring, with breaches leading to possible recall to prison. Probation officers will work with survivors to design zones that prevent contact and allow victims to move safely and freely.
DAHA perspective: This is a welcome step towards survivor-centred safety, placing restrictions on offenders movements for the first time, rather than on the victims. However, its success will depend on whether it is properly resourced and effectively enforced. DAHA will continue to monitor how these measures interact with housing responses - particularly in relation to relocation support, tenancy security, and alignment with DAHA’s accreditation standards.