A VICTIM of domestic violence fears for her life as her abusive ex will soon be able to walk back into her home.

The brave woman, who wants to remain anonymous, spoke to the Echo about how she has been fighting to get her husband’s name taken off her council tenancy since he tried to kill her almost two years ago.

A court imposed an occupation order meaning he is not able to enter the family home in Laindon or surrounding area – but that runs out in December.

Basildon Council claims it cannot take a name off a joint tenancy without a property transfer order, which can only be granted in a family court hearing.

The victim, who has two children from a previous relationship, earns just £800 a month and is paying off rent arrears and payday loans her ex racked up against her address.

She has not yet divorced him, as she cannot afford the legal fees.

She said: “My ex is an alcoholic and a bully.

“It wasn’t until we got married that he started to get really controlling.

“One night I had to lock myself in the bedroom while he tried to get in. If he had done so, I’m sure I would be dead now.

“As he’s still registered here, he’s getting loans listed to my address. I’ve had bailiffs knocking at my door.

“I never want to see him again. But the only way I can get rid of him for good is to go to court and get an order.

“I’m in a low-paid job and can’t afford a solicitor.

“I thought the council would want to protect domestic violence victims.’’ The woman has lived in a council house for 25 years, but added her husband’s name on to the tenancy when they married a decade ago.

A Basildon Council spokesman said: “We cannot permanently exclude a tenant who has a legal right to occupy a tenancy, without going to court and obtaining a court order.’’ He said he could not comment fully on the case as housing officers were on a training course in London.