Migrant victims of domestic abuse in Jersey can now receive financial support to help them leave abusive relationships without meeting the usual five-year residency rules – but only if they can provide evidence of the abuse.

The first annual Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) progress report, published last week, confirmed that victims on spouse and work visas may now qualify for government support under an updated policy brought in last September that aims to help people escape abusive situations.

It comes after the VAWG Taskforce – a group of stakeholders set up to investigate gender based violence in Jersey – called for a specific concession to ensure that migrant survivors can get government benefits.

This is because, in Jersey, migrants typically need to reside in the island for five years to become eligible for certain benefits, such as Income Support.

The recommendation read: “The Justice and Home Affairs Minister should introduce a concession for migrant victims-survivors on spouse and work visas to ensure they have recourse to public funds and access to the safety which this can afford them.”

Kate Wright, who chaired the Taskforce, said immigration rules had historically made it difficult for victims to escape abuse.

“Survivors often feel unable to report abuse for fear of losing their immigration status, and face high evidential barriers when applying for residency in their own right,” she said.

She added that the Taskforce had pushed for improved safeguards – including protections around data sharing, the acceptance of non-police evidence in immigration cases, clearer public information, and specialist training for immigration officers.

The progress report revealed that, in August last year, Social Security Minister Lyndsey Feltham agreed to reduce the residency requirement for income support to three years in exceptional cases, including domestic abuse, serious illness, and the death of a partner.

A separate exemption was also introduced for victims of domestic abuse with children, who now only need to have lived in Jersey for one year to be eligible.

Under the new system, therefore, funding will be granted to individuals including newcomers to the island who have not met the five-year residency requirement as well as those with certain visa conditions.

“Survivors often feel unable to report abuse for fear of losing their immigration status”

Kate wright

To qualify, applicants must provide evidence of abuse.

The standards used to assess this evidence are the same as those used by the Jersey Customs and Immigration Service (JCIS) in domestic violence immigration cases, according to the report.

Responding to questions about how this process works in cases of coercive control – a hidden pattern of psychological and emotional abuse that may not leave physical evidence – Sarah Hamon, Service Manager at Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS), urged people not to be put off.

“Coercive control can be hard to identify, understand and prove. However this should not deter people from coming forward to JDAS, Freeda or the police, where they will be heard and supported,” she said.

She explained that evidence could include digital media, descriptions of behaviour, and statements from witnesses.

She also noted that JCIS officers have received training in recognising coercive and controlling behaviour, and that JDAS works closely with JCIS and the Employment and Social Security Housing (ESSH) team to support those affected.

“Several JDAS service users subjected to such abuse, have been supported to understand their viable options and make informed choices,” Ms Hamon said.

Meanwhile, Mrs Wright welcomed the early progress by JCIS, which she said includes updated guidance, improved decision letters, officer training and ongoing policy reviews.

“It’s really heartening to see that JCIS has begun implementing these reforms,” she said.

‘I believe these changes are an essential step in ensuring that Jersey’s immigration system protects, rather than punishes, those experiencing violence and abuse.”

SUPPORT…

Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS) offer specialist support and guidance in relation to domestic or sexual abuse incidents. Support is provided before, during and after any police investigation or court hearing. It is also available when police are not involved. Call: 01534 880505 or email JDAS@gov.je.

The SARC at Dewberry House provide expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. The Centre comprises of a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising, supporting and treating anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. Call: 01534 888222. 

Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Tel: 01534 482801. 

FREEDA (Freedom from Domestic Abuse) offer a 24-hour helpline, access to safe accommodation as well as help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836. 

Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.