The impact domestic abuse has on young people will be highlighted in the latest phase of the Scottish Government’s campaign to eradicate domestic abuse and violence against women.
The campaign, which was unveiled today by Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell, will begin on Boxing Day and will feature television, radio and billboard adverts highlighting the impact of domestic abuse on young people.
The campaign is also being backed by the Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman, who is the Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM).
Kidman said: "Violence against women and girls is a crime that cannot be tolerated. I know that many women who have been subjected to violence are afraid to denounce their abusers.
"But if all of us send the strong message that violence against women is unacceptable and against the law, we can help women in this situation feel that they can more safely report the crime and access services for survivors.”
Launching the new phase of the campaign in Edinburgh today Maxwell said that violence against women and domestic abuse continues to devastate the lives of “too many” women and young people in Scotland.
He continued: "Last Christmas hundreds of women contacted the domestic abuse helpline or contacted Women's Aid in response to the campaign.
"I hope many women will hear or see this year's advertisements and take the first steps to seek help to have a life free from fear, free from the blight of domestic abuse. The Scottish Government's message is clear - there is no excuse for domestic abuse."
Heather Coady, Children's Policy Worker at Scottish Women's Aid added: "Research shows that one in five women in Scotland will experience domestic abuse. And a large number of children will witness the abuse of their mothers which will have a significant impact on them.
"Domestic Abuse can mean huge loses for children and young people. They often have to move house, leave behind family, friends, pets and possessions and are more likely to experience homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. They often feel very frightened, isolated, angry and confused and the combination of these factors can have a detrimental impact on their educational attainment and their physical and mental health.
"But with the right support, children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse can survive and go on to build positive lives.”
The Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The number is 0800 027 1234. Calls cannot be traced.
For more information on the UNIFEM campaign visit www.saynotoviolence.org
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