Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the effect of the two-child benefit limit on levels of domestic violence; and if she will make a statement.

Domestic abuse is a huge problem in our society, with a number of contributing factors, as well as far-reaching and devastating impacts. It is an extremely complex crime which can affect anyone and this Government takes the issue very seriously. DWP is committed to doing all we can to support victims of domestic and economic abuse. All work coaches undergo mandatory training in how to support vulnerable claimants including recognising the signs of domestic abuse. By summer 2019, we will have domestic abuse specialists in every Jobcentre.

We have also been closely engaging with key domestic abuse stakeholders on a range of topics and we will continue to work closely with them on improving our services, policies and support for victims of abuse.