Top police chief signs pledge to end violence

ONE of Scotland’s top police officers has signed a pledge to help end violence against women and girls as a “clear signal of intent” from the force.

Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone and other members of Police Scotland’s executive gave their backing to the White Ribbon pledge – part of a global campaign to end male violence against women. White Ribbon Day, starting today, marks the beginning of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

Mr Livingstone, the most senior of Scotland’s three deputy chief constables, recently delayed plans to retire after it was announced that Chief Constable Phil Gormley had been put on special leave as allegations of gross misconduct against him are investigated.

He said: “Every day our officers and staff work to tackle violence against women, to prevent offences and make our communities safer for all.

“Violence against women takes many forms, whether it’s sexual crime, domestic abuse, human trafficking, female genital mutilation or another form of abuse.

“The vast majority of these offences take place in private or in virtual space rather than public spaces. While most men do not perpetrate violence against wom- en, the overwhelming majority of offenders are men. This has to stop. That is why it is so important for all of us, but especially men, to do what we can to address violence against women.”

He added: “Signing the White Ribbon pledge is a clear signal of our intent. We won’t remain silent, as individuals and as a service, and we will do all we can to end violence against women and girls.”