'Seismic shift' needed over abuse

A woman is murdered by her
current or ex-partner every
three days




'Seismic shift' needed over abuse Edinburgh is being urged to
make a "seismic shift" in the way it handles the problem of
domestic violence.
Statistics show that a woman is murdered by her current or
ex-partner every three days in the UK.
A conference in the city to mark the UN International Day
for the Elimination of Violence against Women will consider
how the problem can be tackled.
Cllr Sheila Gilmore said violence was a deeply embedded
problem and that a seismic shift was needed.
The Edinburgh Violence Against Women Partnership,
which is organising Friday's conference, said the barriers
between the various agencies working to end domestic
attacks must be broken down.
The group is recommending closer links between police,
social services and other bodies and a greater sharing of
data.
They also want more effective support for victims,
helping women and children who have been affected
by violence to rebuild their lives.
Cllr Gilmore, who is chairwoman of the Edinburgh
Community Safety Partnership (ECSP), said:
"Quite frankly it is disgusting that 30 years after the
formation of Women's Aid we are still having to
discuss how to deal with domestic abuse.
Vital role
"Certainly there have been great strides made both in
legislation and service delivery since the 1970s.
"Just as certain though is the fact that this is a problem
deeply embedded in our society.
We must try to make the seismic shift that the city needs."
The Scottish Executive has recently committed to
supporting a new violence against women fund.
This is set to play a vital role in supporting and
developing local measures around the key themes
of prevention, protection and provision.
It includes children and young people affected by
gender-based violence.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4468572.stm
Published: 2005/11/24 23:10:54 GMT©
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