Inverness detective on domestic abuse: ‘We need to get better at calling out poor behaviour in the Highlands’
Domestic abuse is a serious issue across Scotland, including in the Highlands. While the region’s rural nature might suggest a quieter, safer environment, domestic abuse can and does happen in all communities.
A recent Freedom of Information request to Police Scotland showed that there was jump in the number of recorded domestic incidents over the festive period in the Highlands.
On December 31, 2022 there were 10 incidents and on January 1, 2023 there were 17. On December 31, 2023 there were 10, however, on January 1, 2024 this went up to 22.
Detective Inspector Chris MacLeod of the Domestic Abuse and Rape Investigation Unit in Inverness, said: "There can be a spike over the festive period.
"We attribute that to heightened stress, financial pressures on families, and increased time spent at home. Alcohol misuse and substance use also tend to rise during this time, which can escalate situations."
However, MacLeod is quick to point out that domestic abuse is not limited to specific times of the year.
"Domestic abuse can occur at any point. The figures do go up during certain periods, but the problem is always there."
The Highlands’ rural landscape presents unique challenges.
"In a rural area, there’s less chance of a crime being overheard. In a flat, neighbours are more likely to hear something and step in, but on a croft miles from anyone else, it’s different," says MacLeod.
He urged people to look out for signs of abuse, even when it’s not immediately obvious.
"If someone’s behaviour changes over time, if they become more isolated, or if you notice injuries, it’s important to reach out.
“That might mean speaking to the person directly or contacting the police or support services. Just because it’s not happening in your home doesn’t mean you should ignore it."
A recurring issue is the tendency for some victims to experience repeated abuse in different relationships.
"We do see people going from one abusive relationship to another," says DI MacLeod.
"Some perpetrators take advantage of vulnerable individuals, and our job is to safeguard victims as best we can."
Victims don’t always report abuse immediately.
"If it happens early in a relationship, people might contact us sooner. But when there’s a pattern of abuse over months or years, it can take much longer for someone to come forward," explains MacLeod.
The introduction of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 has been a game-changer.
"The legislation has allowed us to address coercive control, financial abuse, and other behaviours that weren’t always recognised as criminal. It’s a step forward in tackling long-term patterns of abuse."
Engaging with the community is key to tackling domestic abuse.
"We have a tendency in the Highlands to let people keep to themselves," says MacLeod.
"But we need to get better as a society at calling out poor behaviour. That might mean having a word with a friend about how they’re treating their partner or stepping in before a situation escalates."
Support services play a crucial role, too.
“We work closely with organisations like Women’s Aid and RASASH. They’re vital in providing support beyond the criminal side of things," says MacLeod.
He also highlighted the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland.
"If someone’s starting a new relationship or notices worrying behaviour, anyone, can apply to the police to find out if their partner has a history of abuse. The person in the relationship can then make an informed decision.
Tackling domestic abuse is not just the responsibility of the police.
He said: "It’s a societal problem. We need everyone to play a part – whether that’s neighbours, friends, or family members. It’s about being willing to get involved when you see something isn’t right."
He also notes that young people are showing more confidence in reporting abuse.
Scottish Government figures released last month report that in 2023/24 Police Scotland recorded 63,867 incidents of domestic abuse.
Of those incidents recorded, 81 per cent involve a male perpetrator and female victim, 15 per cent featured a female perpetrator and male victim and 3 per cent featured same sex couples.
And where age is known, approximately 35 per cent of all incidents reported featured a male perpetrator under the age of 35.
"Domestic abuse isn’t a new problem, but younger generations seem to be better at coming forward. Older generations can sometimes worry about stigma, and we work hard to overcome that with our partners."
For MacLeod and his team, success isn’t just about securing convictions.
"We utilise every resource available to get a conviction, but if we can’t achieve that, safeguarding victims is still a win. Preventing abuse from happening again is just as important."
The message is clear: if you’re concerned about abuse – whether it’s happening to you or someone you know – don’t hesitate to act.
"Anyone can call 101 or 999, and we’ll respond to any concerns. It’s not just about criminal investigations. We can point people to support services if they need extra help," says MacLeod.
Domestic abuse often happens behind closed doors, but with increased awareness and a collective effort, there’s hope for change.
"We want to empower people to report abuse, to reach out for support, and to call out poor behaviour when they see it. Together, we can make a difference."
Police Scotland has just launched a new campaign with the aim of getting men to change their behaviour.
Help and advice is available from Respect.
If you have been impacted by this story you can also contact Inverness Women's Aid on 01463 220719.
