Fewer than one in five incidents reported to
police.
Victims of domestic violence have been encouraged to seek support
and report incidents to police, following a reduction in recorded
cases.
Newly published statistics show Police Scotland recorded 61,934
incidents of domestic abuse in 2022-23, a decrease of 4% compared
to the previous year.
Most domestic abuse, however, is not reported. The most recent
results from the Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (for 2018-20)
estimated that only 16% of incidents were reported to police.
Victims Minister said:
“Domestic violence is abhorrent. Although these latest statistics
show a decrease in police recorded incidents, we know that there
are cases where violence and abuse is not reported. I would
encourage victims to seek support from organisations who can help
and, where they can, to report any abuse to police.
“Through Scotland’s Equally Safe Strategy, which focuses on early
intervention, prevention and support services, we are putting in
place measures to tackle the root causes of domestic abuse. It is
imperative that where behaviours turn into violence and abuse,
those responsible face the full force of the law and are brought
to justice. Our landmark Domestic Abuse Act has provided more
powers to police and courts to punish perpetrators of abuse and
protect people at risk.
“This month we announced £2 million of funding for Rape Crisis
Scotland and Scottish Women’s Aid to help reduce their waiting
lists for women who need support services, including refuge
places and counselling. This is in addition to £19 million annual
funding from our Delivering Equally Safe Fund, which aims to
tackle gender-based violence and has supported 121 projects from
112 organisations since October 2021 – benefitting almost 32,000
people in its first year.”
Background
Domestic abuse recorded by
the police in Scotland, 2022-23
The Victim Centred Approach Fund will also provide £48 million to
23 organisations from 2022-25, including £18.5 million for
specialist advocacy support for survivors of gender-based
violence.
Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline
(0800 027 1234) provides a 24-hour,
365-day-a-year service, for victims of domestic abuse, sexual
violence and other forms of violence against women, providing
confidentiality and specialist advice. The Scottish Government
has provided £1.9 million funding to the helpline.
