The number of domestic abuse incidents recorded last year increased by three per cent, reaching their third-highest level on record.
The 63,867 cases reported to police in 2023-24 is the equivalent of 175 a day, or an incident being reported more than every 10 minutes across the country.
The number of reoffenders also appears to be on the rise, with an estimated 65 per cent of suspected perpetrators having previously been involved in related incidents.
Last year, the comparative figure was 64 per cent.
The official Scottish Government statistics released today revealed the vast majority of victims were women who were attacked by men, with 90 per cent of incidents taking place in a home setting.
Scottish Conservative MSP Pam Gosal is currently taking a proposed domestic violence bill through parliament.
The Prevention of Domestic Abuse (Scotland) bill would introduce a number of measures, including a register for culprits similar to the sex offenders’ register.
It would also compel offenders to undergo rehabilitation, improve data collection and increase education in relation to domestic abuse.
Scottish Conservative MSP Pam Gosal said: “The number of domestic abuse incidents occurring across Scotland is utterly appalling.
“Police recorded an incident every 10 minutes last year, and the problem is getting worse.
“We need urgent action, especially in relation to reoffending and targeting those who abuse again and again.
“These statistics indicate around two-thirds of domestic abuse crimes are committed by those who have done it before. That is an appalling reflection on dealing with those who’ve been guilty of domestic abuse in the past.
“My members’ bill would mean many of those convicted of domestic abuse would face the shame of being put on a register, something that would increase deterrence and place potential victims in a much stronger position.
“It would also support the societal change required, by bringing in more rehabilitation of offenders and rolling out education across the younger generations.
“The vast majority of victims of domestic violence are women who have been attacked by a man they know and often live with.
“We owe it to them to do better on this, and the introduction of my bill would help turn the tide on this deep-rooted and extensive problem.”
Notes to editors:
The full Scottish Government report can be seen here:
https://www.gov.scot/binaries/content/documents/govscot/publications/statistics/2024/11/domestic-abuse-statistics-recorded-police-scotland-2023-24/documents/domestic-abuse-recorded-by-the-police-in-scotland-2023-24/domestic-abuse-recorded-by-the-police-in-scotland-2023-24/govscot%3Adocument/Domestic%2Babuse%2Brecorded%2Bby%2Bthe%2Bpolice%2Bin%2BScotland%252C%2B2023-24.pdf
For more on Pam Gosal’s proposed members bill, visit:
https://www.parliament.scot/bills-and-laws/proposals-for-bills/proposed-domestic-abuse-prevention-scotland-bill