MSP Gillian Martin backs domestic abuse legislation
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New legislation will allow police and courts to gain powers to remove suspected abusers from victims’ homes and ban them from re-entering.
The move has been welcomed by Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin who asked the First Minister last month how the Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Bill would help protect victims.
It will also enable social landlords to end or transfer a tenancy of a perpetrator of domestic abuse to prevent a victim becoming homeless and enabling them to remain in the family home.
Since the beginning of lockdown in March, the Scottish Government has taken several steps to protect victims of domestic abuse.
This included an announcement of £1.5 million for Scottish Women’s Aid and Rape Crisis Scotland to support victims of abuse.
Commenting Gillian Martin said: “This is a very welcome step forward in protecting victims of domestic abuse.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasised the need to protect women and girls who find themselves isolated and vulnerable.
“This further step by the Scottish Government will help those at risk to feel safe in their home and to be able to address their longer-term safety and housing situation.
“We know abuse can take many forms, including physical as well as coercive control.
"I would urge anyone who is worried about their safety to please talk to someone they trust or to get in touch with organisations including Grampian Women’s Aid for support.”
