Domestic abuse is still too common
Victims must get support, insists councillor
JACK THOMSON
LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER
The number of domestic abuse attacks taking place in Renfrewshire each year is “hugely concerning”, according to a local councillor.
A total of 2,132 incidents of domestic violence were recorded last year – the lowest figure since the 1,658 recorded in 2009-10.
However, Councillor Jane Strang has said the high number of incidents which have taken place throughout the last decade “should never be understated”.
There have been more than 2,000 attacks in Renfrewshire each year for the last eight years.
Councillor Strang told the Paisley Daily Express: “The effects of domestic abuse on victims can be wide ranging and should never be understated.
“It is hugely concerning that almost six domestic abuse incidents are occurring every single day in our communities and we must ensure that victims get the justice that they deserve.”
Overall the number of incidents recorded in Scotland have increased from 58,810 to 59,541 in the last year.
Neighbouring authorities Inverclyde and East Renfrewshire recorded rises in the last year, while West Dunbartonshire, Glasgow City, East Dunbartonshire and North Ayrshire joined Renfrewshire in showing downward trends.
However, Maurice Golden MSP said the statistics offered “no comfort” to victims.
He added: “It is hugely concerning to see over 2,000 domestic abuse incidents take place over the course of the last year in Renfrewshire.
“I am also concerned that the number of incidents has remained around this level for the best part of a decade in the region, which will give no comfort to victims.”
Police chiefs have previously said they will “relentlessly pursue” domestic abusers.
Assistant Chief Constable Gillian MacDonald, crime and operations lead for Police Scotland, said: “Domestic abuse is pernicious, it is destructive, debilitating and robs victims of their confidence and self-esteem.
“It has no place in modern Scotland.
“We are committed to working with partners and communities to eradicate it.
“It has no respect for age, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or income.
“We will relentlessly pursue those who abuse, whilst supporting victims, to help prevent domestic abuse from damaging their lives and those of their families, including children who all too often witness the abuse and suffer long lasting emotional trauma as a result.” CALL FOR MORE 0903 658 2008 AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22 CALL FOR MORE 0903 658 2009 SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23