Natalie Don MSP is encouraging Renfrewshire residents witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse to report the incidents to police and contact organisations providing specialist advice and support for victims often living in traumatic circumstances.
The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West’s call comes following figures published by the Scottish Government showing the number of reported domestic abuse incidents in Renfrewshire was 2,118 in 2020/21 and Police Scotland figures released this week revealing 1,431 domestic abuse incidents were reported in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde between April and September this year.
Natalie Don MSP encourages Renfrewshire residents witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse to report the incidents to police and contact organisations providing specialist advice and support for victims.
Natalie Don MSP said: “I thank Police Scotland and multi-agency local partners for their ongoing dedicated work in helping people in our communities who have experienced domestic abuse into safe environments.
“The fact that there were 2,118 reported incidents in 2020/21 is a stark reminder of the completely unacceptable levels of domestic abuse that occur in Renfrewshire and, as a society, we clearly need to do more to foster a zero tolerance approach by challenging the horrendous attitudes and behaviours which often underpin domestic abuse.
“A person’s home should be a place of safety but, unfortunately, the vast majority of domestic abuse incidents take place in households, with women disproportionately accounting for around four in five victims.
“No-one should be subject to domestic abuse and no child should have to witness this growing up. I urge all Renfrewshire residents who either witness or experience domestic abuse incidents to find the confidence to speak out by contacting specialist helplines and the police to ensure victims can be provided with the support that they require and the perpetrators brought to justice.”
People in Renfrewshire concerned about domestic abuse can contact:
Police Scotland on 999 for emergencies and 101 for non-emergencies
Women and Children First on 0300 300 0345 or woman.sw@renfrewshire.gov.uk
Renfrewshire Women's Aid on 0141 561 7030 (9am - 4pm)
Scotland's 24-hour Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 027 1234
Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 999 5428
Men's Advice Line on 0808 801 0327