Why we’re calling for urgent reform to protect domestic abuse survivors

If you’ve experienced domestic abuse and are trying to rebuild your life, asking for help with debt should be a safe and supportive step forward, not something that puts you in danger. 

But that’s exactly what’s happening and it’s putting hundreds of survivors at risk. 

If you apply for certain kinds of debt help, like a debt relief order (DRO), your name and home address are published online on a public government register. 

That means your personal details are there for anyone to find, including an abusive ex-partner. 

There is a way to keep your address hidden. It’s called a persons at risk of violence (PARV) order.  

However, getting one is far from easy. 

What's a PARV order? 

A PARV order is a special court order that protects your privacy. 

If you’re approved for one, your address is hidden on the individual insolvency register.  

Without it, your name and address are available to anyone online and is completely free to access. 

But getting a PARV order is costly and complicated. 

To get one, you have to: 

• complete court forms and provide evidence of abuse  

• pay a £308 court fee – up front, even if you don’t have any money, are in debt or living in a refuge 

• pay the fee again every time you move 

Most people who need a PARV don’t get one 

Our customer data shows: 

• around 1,470 people needed a PARV order in 2024 

• but just 194 addresses were actually withheld 

• that’s only 13% getting the protection they need 

This means most survivors either couldn’t afford the fee or were unable to navigate the system. 

Adam Rolfe, our policy and public affairs officer, explained how the system is forcing some people to choose between staying safe and getting out of debt.   

“We’re deeply concerned that so many people are missing out on this vital protection,” he said.  

“The £308 fee is a huge barrier, especially when someone has already left everything behind. On top of that, the process is complicated, lengthy and daunting. We regularly speak to people who simply can’t afford to wait. They’re desperate to stop bailiffs or court action and feel their urgent debt problems must come first. 

“No one should be forced to make that kind of choice.” 

We’re urging the government to act urgently  

In 2024, the government scrapped the £90 fee for DROs, which we welcomed. 

But now the PARV fee is a new barrier and it’s keeping survivors from protecting themselves. 

That’s why we’re calling for urgent reform and for the government to abolish the fee immediately to better protect hundreds of people every year. 

What’s the government doing? 

The government is currently reviewing the personal insolvency framework, including whether the Individual Insolvency Register should remain publicly available. 

This register currently lists people who’ve gone bankrupt, entered a DRO, or set up an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA). It includes names and addresses. 

But survivors need urgent protection now, not just future promises. 

Additional benefits of scrapping the PARV fee 

Getting rid of the PARV fee would also: 

• reduce the risk of repeat domestic violence 

• help survivors return to work without fear of being found 

• improve mental health by reducing the constant anxiety of being tracked down 

• give people the confidence to rebuild their lives in safety 

Help is available 

If you're worried about domestic abuse, support is available. There are charities and organisations across the UK that can help you stay safe, understand your rights and find a way forward. 

Here are five organisations you can contact: 

Refuge 

Refuge supports women and children experiencing domestic violence with emergency accommodation and emotional support. 

Women's Aid 

Women’s Aid works to end domestic abuse against women and children, offering online chat, resources and help finding local services. 

Respect 

Respect offers confidential advice and support for men who are being abused, as well as support for people who want to change their abusive behaviour. 

Galop  

Galop supports LGBTQ+ people who are experiencing domestic abuse, hate crime or sexual violence. 

National domestic abuse helpline  

This is a free and confidential helpline available any time of day or night for anyone affected by domestic abuse.