Definition of Domestic Abuse
Extracted from Preventing Domestic Abuse - A National Strategy, Scottish Executive, 2003.
…Domestic abuse (as gender-based abuse), can be perpetrated by partners or ex-partners and can
include physical abuse (assault and physical attack involving a range of behaviour), sexual abuse
(acts which degrade and humiliate women and are perpetrated against their will, including rape)
and mental and emotional abuse (such as threats, verbal abuse, racial abuse, withholding money
and other types of controlling behaviour such as isolation from family or friends).
Definition of Violence Against Women
Extracted from the Safer Lives: Changed Lives - A shared approach to tackling VAW in Scotland, 2009
The Scottish Government defines violence against women as actions, which harm or cause suffering or indignity
to women and children, where those carrying out the actions are mainly men and where women and children
are predominantly the victims. The different forms of violence against women – including emotional,
psychological, sexual and physical abuse, coercion and constraints – are interlinked. They have their roots in gender inequality and are therefore understood as gender-based violence.
In recognising this definition, there is no denying or minimising the fact that women may use violence, including
violence against a male or female partner. Although less common this is no less serious and requires to be addressed.
Members of West Dunbartonshire Violence Against Women Partnership work together to achieve
the strategic aims of the Partnership Members include:
Clydebank Women's Aid;
Crown Office Procurator Fiscal Service;
Community Health and Care Partnership;
Rape Crisis;
Scottish Children's Reporters' Administration;
Strathclyde Police;
West Dunbartonshire Council;
Dumbarton Women's Aid; and
WDC Community Safety Partnership
First Edition of Violence Against Women Newsletter
Training
The Partnership can also help local agencies who are seeking information, resources, training and consultancy
services in relation to domestic abuse and violence against women. For further information email. The Partnership also has an extensive resource library that can be accessed by professionals and students for research purposes. Access is by appointment only. Contact the partnership for more details. Information sessions are available for students and those on work placement for further information see CARA Information Sessions 2012
Women Living with Domestic Abuse - Leaflet
A guide to support services in West Dunbartonshire for women who are affected by all forms of
male violence against women.
Contact Details:
For further information about the work of the Partnership and the Projects please contact:
West Dunbartonshire Violence Against Women Partnership Tel: 01389 738680
