THE number of women and children receiving support after being impacted by domestic abuse continues to rise in Clackmannanshire, according to a frontline aid charity.

Despite a reduction in cases officially being reported to police, Clackmannanshire Women's Aid continues to support an increasing number of women, children and young people, directors say.

The revelation comes following the release of official statistics by Police Scotland, showing that 656 incidents of domestic abuse were recorded in 2022-23.

That is a reduction of nearly 100 compared to the year before and the lowest on record since 2014-15.

However, those providing support in the Wee County say cases continue to rise in numbers.

Alison Morley, director at Clackmannanshire Women's Aid, told the Advertiser: “The latest Police Scotland data on reported domestic abuse show a decrease, however, our experience is that the number of women, children and young people we support continues to increase.

“We currently operate with waiting lists for all our services as we do not have the capacity to meet with everyone face to face.

“We will always provide phone or text support and signpost other supports as appropriate until we can facilitate a face to face meeting.”

Alison explained that there can be many reasons as to why women decide not to report cases to officers, based on their own situation and experiences.

And indeed, as the latest data was published at the end of March, a national call was made, encouraging victims to seek support and report incidents.

Across Scotland, 61,934 incidents of domestic abuse were reported in 2022-23, a decrease of four per cent.

However, the most recent results from the Scottish Crime and Justice Survey, for 2018-20) estimated that only 16 per cent of incidents were reported to police.

Siobhian Brown, victims minister, said: “Domestic violence is abhorrent.

“Although these latest statistics show a decrease in police recorded incidents, we know that there are cases where violence and abuse is not reported.

“I would encourage victims to seek support from organisations who can help and, where they can, to report any abuse to police.

“Through Scotland’s Equally Safe Strategy, which focuses on early intervention, prevention and support services, we are putting in place measures to tackle the root causes of domestic abuse.

“It is imperative that where behaviours turn into violence and abuse, those responsible face the full force of the law and are brought to justice.

“Our landmark Domestic Abuse Act has provided more powers to police and courts to punish perpetrators of abuse and protect people at risk.”

Women and young people impacted by domestic abuse in the Wee County can call Clackmannanshire Women's Aid on 01259 721 407 or email info@clackswomensaid.org.uk.

Visit clackswomensaid.org.uk for more information.