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If it is an emergency, the council must provide safe temporary accommodation for you and any children. There are different types of temporary accommodation including furnished houses and flats and Bed & Breakfasts (but if you have children with you, you will not be expected to stay in a B&B for more than two weeks). East Lothian Women’s Aid also provides safe refuge (see section 9).
What to expect from East Lothian Council
Council staff know that it may be difficult for you to ask for help, so the following may set your mind at rest:
- They will not ask you to prove that you have been abused
- They will not contact your abusive partner
- If they need to make enquiries to support your application, they may contact any individuals or organisations you think may be able to help. But they know that you may not have told anyone about the abuse
- In finding permanent accommodation for you, they will try to cause as little disruption to your family life as possible. They will take into account where your children go to school, where you work and any health or other needs
- They can tell you about other services which can help and can also refer you to the police domestic abuse liaison officer for support
Info about rent and mortgage
Your rights to temporary or permanent accommodation are not affected by any rent arrears on your current tenancy.
You may need help to pay the mortgage or rent on your home. East Lothian Women’s Aid and East Lothian Council can explain more about the help available. It is important to speak to someone as soon as possible for your own peace of mind and to avoid any arrears building up. See also section 8.
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