Dundee worst in Scotland for violence in the home

DUNDEE domestic abuse victims are said to be “losing faith in the justice system” as the city remains Scotland’s worst place for such offences. work if the government fund certain parts of it but not others.”

According to a spokesperson, the Scottish Government is “not aware of solicitors previously having raised specific issues about domestic abuse cases”.

The government refused to comment on the bail conditions placed on alleged abusers.

The spokesperson added: “The backlog in cases is a primary concern, which is why we committed £50 million to justice recovery in 2021-22 – including setting up 16 additional solemn and summary courts to increase capacity – and we are allocating a further £53.2m in this financial year to recovery, renewal and transformation activity across the justice system as we emerge from the pandemic.”

Detective Inspector Gillian Fairlie, from Police Scotland’s domestic abuse taskforce, insists officers work to ensure victims are “fully supported”.

She said: “Our domestic abuse disclosure scheme information provides a mechanism for sharing information if people suspect their partner has a history of domestic abuse.

“It gives people at risk the information they may need to make an informed choice on whether to continue their relationship, and provides help and support to assist the potential victim when making that informed choice.”

She urged anyone at risk of domestic abuse to contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Dundee Women’s Aid has secured three years’ funding of £1.4m for a domestic abuse court advocacy service with Barnardo’s and the Dundee Violence Against Women Partnership – named Dundee Assist.

Ms Miller said: “This is funded from the justice department of the Scottish Government.

“The Dundee Assist team will support victims, including children, who have cases going to court and our colleagues in Police Scotland will refer them to us at the earliest opportunity so that victims get the help they so rightly deserve.

“Anyone seeking support from Women’s Aid can call 01382 207099 where we will do our utmost to help.”