Domestic abuse support
Home should be a place where you feel secure, respected, and safe. We want to reassure Co-Ownership customers and applicants experiencing domestic or economic abuse, we are here to support you.
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This information is for people living in Northern Ireland.
Whether you own a home with us, are applying for one, or are just exploring your options, Co-Ownership is here to support you safely, discreetly, and without judgment. We want you to know you are not alone and you do not need to have everything figured out.
What domestic abuse can look like
Abuse isn't always physical, and it often builds up slowly over time. If something in your relationship doesn't feel right, trust your feelings.
Domestic abuse can look like someone:
- making you feel frightened or unsafe.
- controlling who you see or where you go.
- monitoring your phone, emails or online activity.
- constantly criticising, humiliating or threatening you.
- controlling money or preventing you from accessing it.
- stopping you working or studying.
- damaging your belongings.
- forcing or pressuring you into sexual activity.
- hurting you physically.
- threatening children, pets or people you care about.
- using your home or finances to control your choices.
You do not need to experience all of these for it to be abuse. Any behaviour that takes away your freedom or safety is serious.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse
Our commitment to you
Co-Ownership has signed up to the Chartered Institute of Housing’s 'Make a Stand' pledge. This means when you reach out to Co-Ownership, you can expect us to handle your situation with care. Tell us in whatever way feels safest for you.
- We will listen and believe you: You will not have to prove your experience to us. We will treat you with dignity, empathy, and respect.
- We will keep contact safe: We will ask you how and when it is safest for us to contact you (such as a safe phone number, email address, or discreet mail).
- We will protect your privacy: Your information is kept secure and restricted. We will not share your details with a joint account holder or external parties without your permission, unless required by law to protect your safety.
- You won't have to repeat your story: With your permission, we securely record key details, so you don't have to re-explain your situation every time you call. If you have a joint account, we'll make sure this information is handled carefully and is secure.
- Trained, compassionate support: Our dedicated team understands the links between housing, finances, and safety. We will work at a pace that feels right for you.
Existing customer: worried about your home?
Domestic or financial abuse can make decisions about your mortgage and living situation feel overwhelming.
You might be worried about paying your rent, managing debts, or what would happen if you separate.
We can help you understand your options, including:
- Your Housing Agreement with us: Explaining what your options are for staying in your home or if you want to leave.
- Rent and mortgage support: Offering guidance on affordable payment arrangements, managing arrears compassionately, and checking if you are entitled to benefits or other support.
- Securing your home: Exploring practical safety adjustments, such as changing the locks or home security advice.
- Specialist connections: Connecting you directly with free, expert legal and domestic abuse organisations.
We understand that every situation is different. We will listen, treat your circumstances with care and work with you.
New applicant: looking for a safe new start?
Starting again after domestic or economic abuse can feel overwhelming and you may be worried about financial impacts that have been left behind.
You could have worries about:
- Your previous financial circumstances
- Damage to your credit history
- Debts that were not your choice
- Gaps in employment or income
- Being unable to provide documents safely
Experiencing domestic or economic abuse does not define your ability to own a home.
We review every application individually. Where abuse has impacted your finances or documents, we will be flexible, compassionate, and supportive while helping you build a sustainable path to home ownership.
What we can do:
- Help you understand what information we need and why
- Be flexible where obtaining documents may be difficult or unsafe
- Provide guidance on steps that may help improve your financial position
- Consider the impact of financial abuse when reviewing your circumstances
Free and confidential helplines
If you need urgent advice or someone to talk to, these independent services can help:
- NI Domestic & Sexual Abuse helpline (24/7, call or text): 0808 802 1414
- Housing Rights (domestic abuse support): 028 9024 5640
- Advice NI (financial and debt support): 0800 915 4604
We know reaching out for help isn't easy, and whether you're ready to talk now or are searching for information on support available, both Co-Ownership and the services listed above are here when you want to chat.
