Calls to NSPCC to report concern about youngsters in danger double
The number of people contacting a charity helpline to raise the alarm about children caught up in domestic abuse has risen sharply in recent years.
The number of people contacting a charity helpline to raise the alarm about children caught up in domestic abuse has risen sharply in recent years.
In 2015/16, the NSPCC received 194 contacts from people in Scotland worried about a child living in a dangerous home.
This resulted in 171 referrals to external agencies such as police and the social services.
The figures compare with 98 contacts in 2012/13, which led to 80 referrals.
Across the UK, 10 adults a day are now getting in touch with the charity to raise concerns about the welfare of children.
Last year, its helpline received 3,883 contacts, up 75% on the 2,223 recorded in 2011/12.
Of the contacts, 83% led to referrals to other agencies. The figures were revealed as the NSPCC launches a TV advertising campaign aimed at raising awareness of what a child can achieve when freed from domestic abuse.
Recent police figures have also shown a rise in recorded incidents of domestic abuse.
The Scottish force recorded 59,882 incidents in 2014/15, up from 58,439 the previous year. Matt Forde, national head of service for NSPCC Scotland, said: Home should be a haven for children where they feel safe and loved and encouraged to dream big.
Tragically, for thousands of young people it is instead a place where they are stalked by the fear of violence and emotional abuse being inflicted upon them or those that they care for most.
It is vital that we don't allow children suffering by living in a home plagued by domestic abuse to remain in the shadows.
Anyone who is either a victim of abuse, suspects it is taking place or is worried about a child should report their concerns to the police or contact the NSPCC.''