Rise in domestic abuse incidents

The number of incidents of domestic abuse recorded by police has risen by almost 1,500 in the space of a year, according to new figures.

In the year to the end of March, the number rose 2.5 per cent to 59,882, statistics published by the Scottish Government show.

The highest proportion of incidents per 100,000 population were recorded in Dundee and Glasgow.

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Figures also show a rise in the percentage of male victims of domestic abuse, up from 12 per cent in 2005-06 to 20 per cent last year.

More than half of all incidents of domestic abuse recorded – equivalent to 32,569 incidents – led to at least one crime or offence being recorded.

The number of incidents of domestic abuse recorded by police has remained around the 60,000 mark for the past four years.

The figures came as ministers confirmed £3m funding over three years for advocacy service ASSIST to work with vulnerable female and male victims of domestic abuse.

Funding of over £120,000 has been provided specifically for male victims of domestic abuse already this year.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “The fact that domestic abuse statistics are remaining relatively steady, despite falling overall recorded crime rates, suggests that those who might have never otherwise come forward are now doing so.

“I believe this is in no small part to the vital support services available for those in need.”

Matheson this month introduced the Abusive Behaviour and Sexual Harm (Scotland) Bill at Holyrood, which will mean an offence is aggravated where abuse of a person’s partner or ex-partner is involved.