In the Third Reading of the Domestic Abuse Bill on 6 July 2020, Stephen spoke in favour of New Clause 22, an amendment which would have ensured all victims - regardless of immigration status - get the vital support and services they need to escape abuse.
Currently, the No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) restriction severely hinders their ability of victims to access life-saving refuge, support and other welfare. Research by Women’s Aid has found that only 5.8% of refuge vacancies in England in 2018-19 could accept a woman with No Recourse to Public Funds.
MPs voted against New Clause 22 by 330 to 207 votes.