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Domestic Abuse

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland (ACPOS) define Domestic Abuse as:

"any form of physical, sexual or mental and emotional abuse which might amount to criminal conduct and which takes place within the context of a close relationship. The relationship will be between partners (married, co-habiting or otherwise) or ex-partners. Domestic abuse can be committed at home or elsewhere".

Domestic Abuse takes many forms including:

Physical - slapping, punching, kicking, strangulation

Sexual - forced sexual acts, sexual assault, rape

Emotional - constant criticism, ridicule, isolation, intimidation

Financial - withholding or controlling access to money

Domestic abuse cuts across all social, cultural and religious boundaries.
It is rarely a one-off event and often escalates in frequency and severity over time

Northern Constabulary treats all Domestic Abuse incidents seriously and understands the fear, distress and suffering it can cause. We work in partnership with other partner agencies to provide a robust response to Domestic Abuse to ensure all victims receive the response and support they need and that all incidents are thoroughly investigated and offenders are held accountable through the criminal justice system. Victim centred investigations are undertaken to ensure the safety of the victims and their children and families.

Designated Domestic Abuse Liaison Officers provide information, advice and support to victims. These officers are known as "DALO's" and are Police Officers trained in the role of Domestic Abuse Liaison. Their role requires them to be able to advise victims as to how to ensure their own safety and that of their children, where appropriate and also to provide links to partner agencies who can further support and assist victims.

You can report an Incident of Domestic Abuse to Northern Constabulary on 0845 600 5703 however, if the situation is urgent and you are in immediate danger or risk of danger you can contact Police via the 999 system.

Are you a child or young person affected by Domestic Abuse?

If you are a child or young person and you are worried that domestic abuse is occurring in your family there are many things you can do to get help. You can call Northern Constabulary on 0845 600 5703 or 999 if it is an emergency. You can also contact Child Line 0800 1111 if you want to talk about the problem.

Child Line 0800 1111

Forced Marriage

Forced Marriage takes place when one or more partners do not consent to a marriage and duress is involved. Duress can be physical, psychological, financial, sexual or emotional. Forced Marriage is an abuse of human rights and cannot be justified on any grounds.

The Forced Marriage Unit of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides support and advice to anyone affected by issues relating to forced marriage. Click on the following link to access further information.

Information for forced marriage victims

The FCO has established an Honour Network run on their behalf by Karma Nirvana and staffed by survivors to offer emotional and practical support.

Helpline No – 0800 5999 247

If you are afraid you are going to be taken abroad and forced into marriage, you can call the Forced Marriage Unit on 020 7008 0151.