Domestic abuse charges in Skye rise by 163 percent

10 SEPTEMBER 2026

Domestic abuse charges in Skye rise by 163 percent

Domestic abuse related charges reported to the Procurator Fiscal in Portree have risen by 163 percent in a year, according to new figures from the Crown Office.

The figures show 71 charges were reported in the area in the year to March 2026, compared with 27 the previous year.

The increase is considerably higher than the national rise.

Across Scotland, 34,586 domestic abuse related charges were reported, an increase of 14 percent on the previous year.

It is the highest annual total recorded in more than a decade.

COPFS says 91% of the charges reported across Scotland resulted in court proceedings.

The figures are based on charges rather than individual people. A single case can involve more than one charge.

Lord Advocate ‘concerned’ by increase

Lord Advocate Ruth Charteris KC has described the national increase as “concerning for all of us”.

She says protecting women and girls from abusive men will be a priority during her time in office.

The Lord Advocate said every charge reported to prosecutors reflects the suffering of a victim, with the overwhelming majority involving a woman harmed by a man.

She said prevention was essential, but that victims also needed the protection of the justice system.

She has promised a firm response from prosecutors, with cases pursued in a way that reflects the seriousness of the offending.

Calls for action

Scottish Women’s Aid says it cannot pinpoint the exact reason for the rise in the figures.

Its chief executive, Dr Marsha Scott, says increased awareness of domestic abuse and greater confidence in reporting are possible explanations.

But she says “any report of a domestic abuse offence is a cause for concern”, and that the figures are a stark reminder of the level of harm taking place every day.

She says urgent and consistent action is needed across services to ensure survivors and their children receive a response that maximises their safety.

Scottish Women’s Aid also says the majority of women never report their experiences.

More people seeking support

There has also been a significant increase in people contacting Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline.

Scottish Women’s Aid says contacts increased by 48 percent between 2024/25 and 2025/26, following a targeted awareness campaign.

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, can contact Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline on 0800 027 1234.

Local support is available through Ross-shire Women’s Aid via www.rosswa.co.uk or by calling 01349 863 568.