Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit needs review, improvement

HALIFAX –The Nova Scotia NDP has written to Premier Tim Houston demanding an update on his commitment to look at the Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit and why some Nova Scotians are falling through the cracks.

NSNDP MLA Susan Leblanc’s office recently assisted a second woman who was wrongly denied the benefit. This came weeks after Leblanc first raised the issue in the Legislature in March after a constituent was turned down without a valid reason.

“There have now been two known cases where women are being blocked from accessing this benefit due to unnecessary bureaucratic barriers,” said Leblanc. “The Premier committed to looking into these barriers more than two months ago, and Nova Scotians deserve an update. Survivors need to know that help is there when they need it.”

The Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit provides monthly benefits to individuals and families fleeing gender-based violence to help them pay rent.

In both cases, Leblanc’s office was able to help the women access the benefit, but only after months of waiting.

“Nova Scotians escaping violent relationships shouldn’t have to jump through hoops or go through their MLAs to get the support they need to help them rebuild their lives,” said Leblanc. “We call on the Houston government to immediately provide an update on their review of the Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit and work with us to better serve those who need this support.”

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