Five-year crackdown on violence

Violence on women will be targeted in the crackdown

A major five-year strategy to reduce violence in Edinburgh has been launched.

The Edinburgh Violence Reduction Programme brings together Lothian and Borders Police, the NHS and the Community Safety Partnership.

Violence against women, street violence and alcohol abuse will all be tackled under the new initiative.

It is hoped the EVRP will create a safer environment in Edinburgh, where violence is deemed unacceptable.

Supt Ramzan Mohayuddin, of Lothian and Borders Police, said: "The profound impact that violence has on victims, perpetrators, witnesses and families is obvious.

Violence, all too often fuelled by alcohol, is harming our communities, and costing our NHS and economy dearly Kenny MacAskill Justice Secretary

"I believe that by working together in this way we will make Scotland's capital an even safer place for all those who live and work here and of course for those who come to visit.

"The programme asks for long-term commitment from all partners and communities to develop and implement policies that will lead to attitudinal changes towards violence."

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "Violence, all too often fuelled by alcohol, is harming our communities, and costing our NHS and economy dearly.

"The Scottish Government are taking action to tackle these issues but we all need to work together if we are going to make Scotland safer and stronger."

Paul Edie, chairman of the Edinburgh Community Safety Partnership, said: "Through this strategy we plan to prevent violence from occurring, help those at risk of becoming a victim or offender and treating those who are already committing violence or are being victimised."

Lesley Johnston, chairwoman of Edinburgh Violence Against Women Partnership, said: "NHS Lothian recognises violence against women as a key public health issue which has a major impact upon the health and wellbeing of those affected.

"The physical, emotional and psychological consequences of violence and abuse can be profound, damaging and even life-threatening to women and their dependants."

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