The number of ‘high risk’ domestic abuse cases discussed by agencies in Fife has risen sharply in the past year, it has emerged, with almost one in three featuring the use of a weapon.
The worrying trend has been highlighted in the annual MARAC report, with Fife’s approach to using multi-agency risk assessment conferencing bringing partners including Fife Council, NHS Fife, Police Scotland, Fife Women’s Aid and substance misuse agencies together to help identify victims and reduce the risk of further incidents or harm to others.
A total of 286 of the highest risk domestic abuse cases were addressed through MARAC last year, including 281 women and five male victims with four same sex partners, representing a 12% increase on the previous year.
A further 552 children and young people were also said to be at potential risk, along with 25 unborn babies, while weapons featured in a staggering 30% of cases examined.
Councillor Margaret Kennedy, chair of Fife’s safer communities committee, expressed concern at the increase in numbers but gave a reassurance that the work carried out by MARAC is making a significant contribution to tackling domestic abuse in Fife.
She commented: “It’s encouraging that the MARAC approach is making a real difference to victims of domestic abuse whether they are women, men or children.
“However it’s entirely unacceptable that so many people live in fear from domestic abuse and we are committed to working with partners to help make a difference and support victims.”
The MARAC report noted that most cases considered are complex, with many featuring domestic abuse over a prolonged period.
Nine per cent of victims were said to be pregnant at the time of referral to MARAC, while 41% of victims experienced stalking.
Substance misuse concerns were also identified for 35% of victims and 67% of perpetrators, while 68% of victims had poor mental health.
The report also detailed a shocking list of weapons featuring in cases.
They included a hammer, a knife, a cup of hot tea, a chip pan, a telephone, an ornament, a belt, a tin of paint, a wooden pole, a TV remote control, a broken bottle, a vase, a glass, a mop pole and other household items.
At least one case also involved an abuser throwing a TV set at their victim, while another featured the use of a vehicle.
In over half of the cases referred to MARAC there were no further domestic abuse incidents reported and 87% of cases had no further incidents reported after 12 months.
Victims also reported feeling safer and detailed feedback from 30% of victims showed they felt significantly safer, healthier and more confident.
Mrs Kennedy concluded: “MARAC has helped all agencies round the table have a better understanding of what can help protect a family from domestic abuse.
“It is one of a range of responses. I would urge anyone living with domestic abuse to seek help at the earliest opportunity.”
Fife Women’s Aid can be contacted on 0808 802 5555, while the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for both men and women) is 0800 027 1234.
Police Scotland should be contacted in an emergency situation via 999.
