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November 16.2025

2 Minutes Read

How Domestic Abusers Exploit B.C.'s Housing Crisis: Key Insights and Calls for Change

Distressed young woman hugging knees on bed in moody black and white.

The Unseen Struggles: Domestic Abusers and the Housing Crisis

In a concerning intersection of domestic violence and housing instability, a recent report from the Rise Women's Legal Centre highlights how the ongoing housing crisis in British Columbia has become a weapon in the hands of abusers. Interviews with over 40 survivors of intimate partner violence reveal a distressing truth: many feel trapped in abusive relationships due to an alarming lack of affordable housing options.

Recommendations for Change: A Call for Legal Reforms

The task at hand is clear. The report advocates for critical updates to B.C.'s family law system, emphasizing the urgent need for changes that ensure quick access to protective measures for victims. As attorney Haley Hrymak states, “Abusers are using the housing crisis... as a way of perpetrating their violence.” In light of this, B.C. must amend the Family Law Act to consider gender-related factors like housing availability in custody and relocation cases.

The Escalating Need for Legal Aid

Another crucial point raised in the report is the pressing demand for expanded legal aid services. Currently, barriers prevent many victims from securing necessary legal protections. The emphasis on accessible justice for survivors is paramount, as navigating the legal landscape can be overwhelming, especially when compounded by the fear of returning to abuse. With over 1,000 individuals on the waitlist for transitional housing through YWCA Metro Vancouver, the need for swift support has never been more apparent.

A Community In Crisis

Beyond the legal ramifications, this crisis paints a broader social picture of vulnerability. Individuals finding themselves facing domestic violence can feel isolated, underscoring the need for community support and awareness. Addressing the challenges posed by housing instability not only aids those in immediate peril but also emphasizes the community’s role in creating long-term solutions.

A Path Forward: Taking Action as a Community

The call to action is urgent: we must work collectively to ensure adequate housing supports are established for victims of domestic violence. Each of us has a role to play in fostering a community culture where support systems are not only available but robust enough to withstand the pressures of a housing crisis. For those directly impacted, sharing stories, leveraging available resources, and advocating for policy change are essential steps toward reclaiming safety and dignity.

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