‘My abuser used our joint mortgage against me’

The financial sector has made progress in recent years to support those experiencing and fleeing from domestic violence.

TSB recently announced an Emergency Flee Fund, offering payments of up to £500. Starling Bank has also made progress in stopping abusers sending messages to their victims through payments.

Many bank branches have safe spaces, where someone can speak privately.

However, joint mortgages, because of the contractual obligation to both parties, can be weaponised long after initial separation. Under current laws, any contractual changes require both parties’ consent.

Owning your own home with a partner also affects access to vital resources to help people leave an abuser and severely limits access to legal aid and representation.

In addition to bearing the brunt of joint mortgage payments, some also have to incur expensive legal fees during court proceedings.

“Financial abuse is a horrendous crime,” said Fiona Turner, head of vulnerability policy at banking trade body UK Finance.

“We need a quicker route to getting debts and mortgages separated and getting parties delinked.”

Whatever the challenges, campaigners and survivors say economic abuse should not stop women leaving dangerous partners when their life and safety is at risk.

“There should be more understanding from lenders on mitigating circumstances,” said Ms Coles.

“Leaving is not easy, but it is worth it.”