Angus people walked “a mile in her shoes” to support an international campaign.
The Angus Violence against Women Partnership backed the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign with a walk at Forfar Loch.
The campaign followed a report that said more than four incidents of domestic abuse are reported in Angus every day.
In total, 683 incidents were reported to police between April and September last year – 4.5 per day.
The walk was attended by workers on the Glen Isla Project that works with female offenders, Angus Council representatives, and North Angus and Mearns MSP Mairi Evans.
Ms Evans said she has heard evidence from organisations such as Women’s Aid, Rape Crisis and Victim Support Scotland about the impact of domestic abuse and rape on women’s lives.
She added: “I absolutely support the zero tolerance approach by all agencies when it comes to domestic abuse in Scotland.
“There have been more domestic abuse cases reported and more convictions as a result but more needs to be done.
“The Scottish Government’s proposals to criminalise psychological abuse and coercive and controlling behaviours mean Scotland is one of the first countries in the world to introduce such measures and show the real commitment to tackling abuse in all its forms.
“I was proud to support the 16 days campaign in Forfar and am committed to doing what I can to tackle violence against women and girls.”
Police Scotland’s area commander for Angus, Chief Inspector David McIntosh heads the partnership, which has voluntary sector members in Angus Women’s Aid, Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, and Tayside Domestic Abuse Service (Barnardo’s).
He said: “Any form of violence against women and girls is unacceptable and shouldn’t be condoned.
“As well as the long-lasting effects on victims it has a significant impact on families and our community.
“The 16 days campaign is good way of showing and developing support for those who need it.
“It also sends a strong message to those that perpetrate abusive, violent or coercive acts that their behaviour is unacceptable.”
