Equally Safe updated publication

Date: 29th March 2016
Category: Equal protection from violence

An updated version of Equally Safe, Scotland's Strategy to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls in Scotland, was published on March 23rd.

Equally Safe is Scotland's strategy for preventing and eradicating violence against women and girls. The strategy was originally produced by Scottish Government and COSLA, with input from key justice agencies (Police Scotland and COPFS) and from third sector agencies which support women.

The overall aim of the strategy is to prevent and eradicate violence against women and girls, creating a strong and flourishing Scotland where all individuals are equally safe and respected, and where women and girls live free from such abuse - and the attitudes that help perpetuate it.

Four key priorities are set out within the strategy:

1. Scottish society embraces equality and mutual respect, and rejects all forms of violence against women and girls.
2. Women and girls thrive as equal citizens: socially, culturally, economically and politically.
3. Interventions are early and effective, preventing violence and maximising safety and wellbeing of women and girls.
4. Men desist from all forms of violence against women and girls and perpetrators of such violence receive a robust and effective response.

While the strategy sets out some early commitments, it explains how a phased approach will help ensure that longer-term change is sustained.

• Read the updated Equally Safe Strategy.