Amber Rudd, who was Secretary of State for Work and Pensions at the time, said that new Universal Credit claims would receive automatic guidance directing payments to be made to the main carer’s account.

She said: “Domestic abuse is a despicable crime that often happens behind closed doors, making it incredibly difficult to detect.

“By ensuring there is a specially trained domestic abuse support officer in every UK jobcentre, we are increasing the likelihood that someone will spot the tell-tale signs and get support to the victim quickly.

“And with the automatic recommendation that payments are to go to the main carer, we’re making it easier for women to build the financial independence they need to leave their abuser.”