People experiencing domestic abuse urged to reach out for support

People across Scotland have been urged to seek support if experiencing domestic abuse during the festive period.

A domestic abuse helpline remains open 24/7 including at Hogmanay and New Year’s Day, with anyone who needs to access help being encouraged to reach out.

Police Scotland can also be contacted at any time of the year to deal with domestic abuse and violence.

SNP MSP Audrey Nicoll has encouraged men and women in abusive households to reach out for help .

She said: “It is appalling that people, predominantly women, are still subject to domestic abuse and violence in their own home.

“But support is available and I would encourage anyone who needs it to access services that can help.

“The SNP Scottish Government has taken significant action to tackle and eliminate violence against women and girls – from criminalising coercive control to banning suspected abusers from re-entering the home – and we are determined to go further.

“Unfortunately, a person’s home isn’t always a place of safety so help is available.

“To anyone who is in an abusive relationship, or knows of someone who is, please reach out to Scotland’s 24/7 domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline on 0800 027 1234.

“Help is there for you throughout the Christmas period.”

People can call on 0800 027 1234, email via helpline@sdafmh.org.uk, or chat online by visiting sdafmh.org.uk.

The Helpline confidentially supports anyone experiencing domestic abuse, as well as concerned family members, or friends.