With domestic violence on the increase and, again, in the news, Brighton and Hove City Council might consider supporting those most at risk from violence instead of allowing an environment of anxiety and fear of homelessness.

There needs to be a system of financial input which works in the long-term to prevent homelessness, instead of the housing benefit system working separately from social services and other support systems.

The more poverty is put on people, the more likely they are to remain in violent relationships for too long or become at risk from the perpetrators seen as “rescuers”.

Currently it costs more for the council to house people in emergency housing than it does to use the private rent sector.

Expecting people with chaotic lifestyles, for whatever reasons other than choice, to become hostages in a dysfunctional system is pointless and does not make financial sense.

Jacqueline Madders, address supplied