Huge difference between number of men and women on domestic abuse initiative

Far more women are receiving safety support from a domestic abuse programme than there are men enrolled in it — raising questions about the true scale of offending going unpunished in Dumfries and Galloway.

- MARC MCLEAN

Horrified Social work chief Stephen Morgan

The discrepancy has been flagged up in a Dumfries and Galloway Council social work report which provides stats on the justice system.

The document, which will be presented to councillors at next Tuesday’s social work committee, reviews figures for the court-mandated Caledonian Programme — a behaviour change programme for men convicted of domestic abuse offences.

The Caledonian Programme also provides support services for their (ex) partners and children through advice, practical and emotional support, and help with safety planning.