Detective Inspector Tommy Stenhouse of West Lothian's Public Protection Unit has issued a stark warning that the approaching summer holidays, while a time of relaxation for many, can mean prolonged exposure to abusers for some. Writing in the West Lothian Courier, Stenhouse outlined the unit's ongoing efforts to combat domestic abuse and support survivors.
Rise in Disclosure Scheme Applications
Stenhouse noted that over a decade since the introduction of the Disclosure Scheme For Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS), applications within the division have continued to rise. This year, the division processed 937 applications, an 8% increase from last year. The scheme allows individuals or concerned third parties to ask Police Scotland if a current or prospective partner has a history of abusive behaviour, helping potential victims make informed choices.
“The upward trajectory of proactive disclosures by police and partners demonstrates the effectiveness of DSDAS as a preventative tool against domestic abuse,” Stenhouse said.
New Financial Support Initiatives
The Public Protection Unit is working with partners to maximise safeguarding. A new Scottish Government initiative, the Economic Abuse Helpline – The Purple Phone, provides expert, trauma-informed advice to help women regain financial freedom and identify barriers to fleeing abuse. The helpline number is 0343 841 0132.
Additionally, West Lothian Women’s Aid administers the Scottish Government’s ‘Fund to Leave’, offering financial assistance to survivors for safer transitions away from abusive situations.
Collaboration with Amazon and Schools
The Domestic Abuse and Rape Investigation Unit has partnered with Amazon to provide backpacks for adults and children fleeing domestic abuse, containing practical items such as mobile phones, toiletries, non-perishable food, and games. These have been distributed via advocacy partners.
Proactive educational inputs have been delivered at every secondary school in West Lothian to over 4,500 pupils by PC Scott McCulloch, covering misogynistic behaviour, domestic abuse, consent, and sextortion. His efforts earned him the Police Officer of the Year award.
Ongoing Training and Reporting
Additional training is being rolled out across Police Scotland’s Public Protection detectives to increase knowledge of honour-based violence and forced marriage. Stenhouse emphasised that early intervention is key to preventing domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
“Domestic abuse has no place in Scotland,” Stenhouse stated. “We will continue to tackle domestic abuse and all incidents of violence against women and girls.” Anyone needing to report such offences can contact Police Scotland via 101 or use third-party reporting mechanisms.
