From 24 September 2024 it will be an offence to intentionally or
recklessly influence, harass or prevent anyone from accessing or
providing abortion services in protected zones around certain
hospitals and clinics.
The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Act 2024
comes into force and creates protected zones of 200 metres around
all premises providing abortion services.
Within those zones, it will be a criminal offence to behave in
ways that could influence the decisions of women and staff to
access services; impede their access; or otherwise cause alarm,
harassment or distress.
Minister for Public Health and Women's Health said:
“I thank for all her hard work in
progressing the Act and I am eternally grateful to all the women
and staff who contributed to that process.
“It is unacceptable for women to face any unwanted influence,
distress or alarm when accessing abortion services. In bringing
the Act into force, I hope women across Scotland hear the clear
message that the Scottish Government will protect their access to
healthcare.
“People continue to have the right to free speech and protest in
a democracy – however, no one has the right to interfere in
women's personal medical decisions. This Act makes that clear.”
Background
Police Scotland will be responsible for enforcing Safe Access
Zones. Anyone who breaks Safe Access Zone laws could be fined up
to £10,000 under summary procedure or to an unlimited amount
under solemn procedure. Full details of the
penalties that apply for committing an offence.
Full list of the locations of zones:
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Hospital
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University Hospital Crosshouse – Kilmarnock
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Borders General Hospital - Melrose
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Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary
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Galashiels Health Centre
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Oak Tree Family Health Centre – Stranraer
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Queen Margaret Hospital - Dunfermline
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Victoria Hospital – Kirkcaldy
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Forth Valley Royal Hospital – Larbert
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Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
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Aberdeen Community Hospital
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Aberdeen Maternity Hospital
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Dr Gray's Hospital - Elgin
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Inverclyde Hospital - Greenock
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Royal Alexandra Hospital – Paisley
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Sandyford Sexual Health Clinic - Glasgow
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Princess Royal Maternity Hospital - Glasgow
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Ross Hall - Glasgow
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New Victoria Hospital - Glasgow
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Queen Elizabeth University Hospital – Glasgow
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Stobhill Hospital – Glasgow
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Vale of Leven Hospital – West Dunbartonshire
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Raigmore Hospital - Inverness
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University Hospital Wishaw
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Royal Infirmary Edinburgh
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Chalmers Sexual Health Centre – Edinburgh
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St John's Hospital – Livingston
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The Balfour – Livingston
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Gilbert Bain Hospital - Lerwick
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Ninewells Hospital - Dundee
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Western Isles Hospital – Stornoway
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