Reported cases of domestic abuse fall

THE number of domestic abuse incidents recorded by police has fallen in the past year, figures show.

Official statistics show a three per cent drop in the figures for Scotland, from 59,882 in 2014-15 to 58,104, the lowest number recorded since 2010-11.

The majority of incidents (79 per cent) had a female victim and a male accused, down from 87 per cent in 2006-07.

Over the same period the proportion of incidents with a male victim and a female accused has increased from 11 per cent to 18 per cent.

The highest rate of domestic abuse was in the 26 to 30 age group, while 87 per cent of all incidents took place in a home or dwelling.

In more than half of cases either the victim, the accused or both were already known to police.

More than half (51 per cent) of all incidents resulted in at least one crime or offence.

Mhairi McGowan, from Assist, the independent domestic abuse advocacy service, said: “There has been huge progress, but there is still a lot to do.

“In particular, I hope the proposed new offence covering emotional and psychological abuse will be introduced, so that victims who are currently suffering in silence will be able to come forward.”

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams said: “These figures illustrate the complexity and scale of the issue but domestic abuse isn’t about statistics or numbers alone; it’s about the impact it has on vulnerable victims, their families and our communities.

“It is simply unacceptable that victims suffer, often behind closed doors in their homes where they should feel safe and secure.” CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after being given permission for Scotland’s first urban community buy-out.

They are bidding to take over the Old Parish Church in Portobello, Edinburgh, but still need to secure the necessary funding.

It is planned the building will be turned into a multi-purpose community hub, with a meeting place for groups such as Cubs and Scouts and activity place for people to use.

The Scottish Government has given Action Porty the go-ahead and granted the group first option on buying the site as long as they can pay the market value, estimated at about £600,000. Action Porty will now apply to the Scottish Land Fund (SLF) for financial help in buying the premises.

Action Porty spokesman Justin Kenrick said: “It’s very exciting we are the first urban community to secure the right to buy.”