News

Recorded crime falls - but reported rape increases yet again

Between April 1 2014 and March 31 2015, there was a 4.7 per cent decrease in crime recorded across all categories.

Reported rape, however, increased by more than 5%. Domestic abuse reports increased by 1.8%.

Rape Crisis Scotland spokeswoman Sandy Brindley said:
"It is always difficult to say with any certainty whether increased reporting of rape means that more rapes are occurring, or whether it reflects increased confidence in the police. We know that rape is a particularly under reported crime. Police Scotland have taken significant steps to ensure people have confidence in the response they receive if they report a sexual offence, and these figures suggest that this is having a positive impact. No matter when a rape happened, someone should feel confident in approaching the police to speak about their experience."

The figures are contained in management information which is published online today.

Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone, Crime and Operational Support, said: “Over the past two years, we have significantly enhanced our whole approach to investigating the most serious of crimes including murder, rape and domestic abuse.

“Through the introduction of Major Investigation Teams, Rape and Domestic Abuse Taskforces and divisional investigation units, we have seen national specialist support being provided to local policing teams to ensure our response is as effective and responsive as possible."

The number of domestic abuse incidents reported during 2014/2015 increased by 1.8 per cent to total 59,471. One or more crimes were recorded in 57 per cent of all domestic incidents.

Sexual crime recorded by Police Scotland increased by 9.3 per cent. There were 1797 rapes recorded during the 12 month period, an increase of 91 compared to 2013/2014. Nearly 40 per cent of those reports were historic.

If you have time to give, and would like the supportive atmosphere, excellent training and personal & professional development that Rape Crisis Scotland offers, come and find out more at our information evening.

Wednesday, 12th August 2015

18.30-20.30

@

The Albany Learning & Conference Centre
44 Ashley Street, G4 6DS

To book a place or for more information contact Mridul Wadhwa

Tel: 0141 331 4188 or volunteer@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

Register on http://rcsvolunteer.eventbrite.co.uk

You can also find out more about what it means to become a volunteer for Rape Crisis Scotland by downloading this document.