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Tackling domestic abuse
22/12/2008
The latest phase of a campaign to tackle domestic abuse and violence against women was launched today.
The TV adverts, entitled 'I Soar', will begin on Boxing Day and highlight the help that is available to those experiencing domestic abuse.
It coincides with the unveiling of a new ACPOS and Crown Office joint protocol outlining the procedures that should be followed by Scottish police forces and prosecution staff when dealing with cases involving domestic abuse.
The Protocol aims to increase confidence in the criminal justice system and inform and guide victims through the process.
Unveiling the ads, Minister for Communities and Sport, Stewart Maxwell, said:
"Violence against women must not be tolerated in any form. We know the effects of domestic abuse can be devastating, including on children and young people, and we are determined to tackle it, wherever and whenever it occurs.
"Over the next three years the Scottish Government is committing over £44 million to tackle violence against women, including supporting the work of Scottish Women's Aid, the Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline, Rape Crisis Scotland and the network of local rape crisis centres.
"Christmas is a time when many families are affected by domestic abuse and calls to the helpline and police increase. I hope that many women will see this year's adverts and take the first steps towards seeking help to rid their lives of domestic abuse."
Actress Daniela Nardini, said:
"Living a life free of abuse is possible. Be strong. Seek Help. They are waiting for your call."
Sex and the City actress Kim Cattrall said:
"There is never an excuse for domestic abuse. Tell a friend. GET HELP. There is no other way to stop the violence towards you AND your children."
The Lord Advocate, the Right Hon Elish Angiolini QC, said:
"The comprehensive review of the Protocol has shown that we have made considerable progress towards achieving its aims. We will strive to continually improve the service we provide.
"We are continually increasing our understanding of the dynamics of domestic abuse. By working closely with the police our robust policy will enable us to make the best informed decisions, appropriate to the particular circumstances of each case.
"Our Victim Information and Advice service will continue to ensure that victims are kept informed of the workings of the criminal justice system, and up to date of the progress of the case that affects them."
Assistant Chief Constable Bill Skelly, (Lothian and Borders Police), who holds the Family Protection Portfolio for the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS), said:
"Domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional or financial is unacceptable. During the year 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008, 49,655 domestic incidents were recorded by Scottish police forces, which equates to 1 incident being attended by a police officer approximately every 10 minutes.
"Given the prevalence of Domestic Abuse, and the continued commitment by the police and prosecution service towards victims and their families experiencing such behaviour and tackling the perpetrators, the review of the Joint Domestic Abuse Protocol is welcomed and is a testimony to the commitment of the police and COPFS to continue to work 'in partnership'.
"It is particularly relevant that this protocol is launched today, at the start of the Scottish Government Domestic Abuse Campaign and during the domestic abuse phase of the national violence reduction campaign. ACPOS is committed to supporting the Scottish Government's work in tackling Domestic Abuse."