The Scottish Government

Key Facts

• In the area of domestic abuse, 91 per cent of those who experience it - in police recorded incidents - are female, and 91 per cent of perpetrators are men.
• A survey has shown that at least one in five women experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives.
• It is difficult to know how many women suffer domestic abuse but research shows that it is widespread and under reported and that the level of repeat victimisation is high.
• Domestic abuse is associated with broader inequalities in society, is part of a range of behaviours constituting male abuse of power and is linked to other forms of violence such as rape and child abuse.
• It occurs in all social groups and is likely to escalate in frequency and intensity over time and may increase at specific points in a woman's life such as during pregnancy.
• It can be perpetrated by partners or ex-partners and can include physical abuse, sexual abuse and mental/emotional abuse. It is often witnessed by children who may themselves experience mental, physical and sexual abuse.
• The range of common effects of domestic abuse includes physical injury, poor health and a range of psychological difficulties. The effects on children must also be recognised as including a range of forms of stress or fear, as well as the additional correlation between domestic abuse and child sexual abuse.

Advice and Help

• For advice and help, call the Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline FREE on 0800 027 1234 or visit our Domestic Abuse website.