More than 2,600 domestic abuse victims helped through Fife service in a decade

More than 2,650 victims of domestic abuse have been helped by a service in Fife - in the 10 years since it was launched.

Known as MARAC - a multi-agency risk assessment conferencing process - it identifies high-risk victims and, through agencies working together, helps to reduce the risks of further incidents and harm to others, including children.

Last year alone, 437 individuals - including 421 women - were assessed was being very high risk, with 541 babies, children and young people involved in those cases.

Meanwhile 19% of people helped reported being stalked, 32% of cases involved a weapon, and officials were repeatedly told of cases involving strangulation.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, Fife Council's community and housing services convener, said: "MARAC makes a significant contribution to tackling domestic abuse in Fife.

"It’s entirely unacceptable that anyone should be experiencing domestic abuse. Of course, we recognise that any person, male or female can be in this situation - however, we are aware that most of the victims helped and supported by MARAC, are women and children.

"The multi-agency nature of MARAC means that all the partners can work together with families to recognise the best way forward together.

"It’s very empowering for families to have the support of many partners - and I thank all of our partners who work to tackle domestic abuse in all its forms - and make Fife a safer place."

One person who has been supported by MARAC has spoken anonymously about the help they received.

They said: "Going through the MARAC process got me support from Fife Women’s Aid. I would never have asked for help had I not been referred by MARAC.

"I had a home security review and police marked my address so it was known there was domestic abuse which helped me feel safer at the time.

"Being believed and having the support for me and my children has helped us heal and come to terms with our experience, and has given me the confidence to go on.

"I have now started a college course in social care and would like to help others. The whole process has made me feel safer and more confident."

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Cunningham from Police Scotland said: "As the current Fife MARAC oversight group chair, I would like to acknowledge this 10-year milestone and the joined contribution and commitment by agencies to support victims of domestic abuse in Fife. 

"Domestic abuse is despicable and debilitating which affects all of our communities and has no respect for ability, age, ethnicity, gender, race, religion or sexual orientation.

"We constantly strive to improve referral pathways to provide victims with access to specialist support and information that can reduce the risk of further abuse, managing the risk to victims and improve their safety. Children living in homes where domestic abuse occurs are also victims of abuse.

"Domestic abuse is everyone’s business and no one organisation or service can address it on their own. Therefore, there is no doubt that the positive collaborative working with MARAC partners is key to reduce the harm caused by domestic abuse and to prevent further abuse from taking place."

Anyone who requires help is being encouraged to seek support from the various agencies: