People experience domestic abuse every year with figures across the UK showing two women on average are killed by their partner or ex-partner every week.

The Chartered Institute for Housing (CIH) has launched the ‘Make a Stand’ campaign in partnership with Women’s Aid and the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance to make a positive difference to victims’ lives.

Housing organisations, including councils, employ and house millions of people across the UK meaning they are in a unique position to support people affected by domestic abuse.

Stephen Llewellyn, head of housing Solutions with North Lanarkshire Council, said: “Domestic abuse is utterly unacceptable and we need to do all we can to help prevent it. A zero-tolerance approach is needed to protect people vulnerable from suffering this type of abuse within their own homes.

“Housing providers can play a big part in offering support to those who may be on the receiving end or at risk of domestic abuse and giving them the help they need to stop it.

“We are Scotland’s largest local authority landlord with over 36,000 tenants and we therefore have a responsibility to help lead the way in preventing domestic abuse and offering support to our tenants. This is a key priority for us and we are pleased to pledge our backing to the CIH’s campaign.”

Domestic abuse is a crime in Scotland and may include violence, intimidation, financial controlling and sexual and emotional abuse.

It can be hard to see the signs that domestic abuse is happening or come to terms with it.

•  You might not feel like you’re a ‘typical’ victim of abuse but there isn’t one.
• It can affect people of any age with 80% of victims being female.
•  This isn’t your fault and there are organisations that can help you.
•  If you feel threatened or unsafe call Police Scotland immediately on 999 or phone Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline on 0800 0271234. They can help you make a plan for your safety. 

North Lanarkshire Council is backing a global campaign aimed at eliminating violence against women.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.