Domestic abuse

How to get help and support if you or someone you know is suffering because of domestic violence, tackling abuse against girls and women.

Local and national organisations can help if you're suffering because of domestic abuse or other forms of violence.

Call Police Scotland

You can contact Police Scotland if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse or other forms of violence:

Telephone: 101

Call 999 in an emergency.

Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline

You can also contact the Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline:

Telephone: 0808 027 1234 (24 hours, freephone)

Violence against women and girls

We work with other local organisations and agencies to tackle domestic abuse and violence against women and girls, as part of the Dumfries and Galloway Public Protection Partnership.

The Dumfries and Galloway Public Protection Partnership website has lots of sources of help, including help for people living with domestic abuse. 

Go to violence against women and girls – Public Protection Partnership

Signs of domestic violence

Domestic violence can include:

  • threats and intimidation – including threats to publicise sexual images and threats to pets
  • hitting or other forms of physical abuse
  • forced or unwanted sex (rape) or other forms of sexual abuse
  • insults, criticism and put-downs
  • isolation from your family, friends or other groups
  • coercive controlling behaviour
  • withholding and controlling money
  • stalking and harassment
  • sexual abuse
  • emotional abuse
  • breaking and destroying property
  • gaslighting
  • harmful traditional practices – including FGM and crimes in the name of 'honour'
  • commercial sexual exploitation – including sex-trafficking, pornography, lap-dancing and prostitution
  • any other form of violence against women and girls