West Dunbartonshire Council’s proposed funding cuts will force the closure of Clydebank Women’s Aid and Dumbarton District Women’s Aid, leaving women and children experiencing domestic abuse with nowhere to turn.

“West Dunbartonshire already has the second highest rates of domestic abuse in Scotland, after Dundee. Cutting these services isn’t just a financial decision – it’s a decision that will cost lives.”

These services don’t just offer support, they save lives. They provide refuge, crisis intervention, and specialist advocacy for women and children fleeing abuse. Without them, survivors will be left at greater risk of violence.

Women’s Aid services are delivered by specially trained and highly experienced staff who understand the complexities of domestic abuse. They provide trauma-informed support, help women navigate the legal system, and ensure children receive the care they need to recover. Their expertise cannot simply be replaced.

The closure of these services won’t just affect those they directly support. Other already overstretched services: social work, housing, health services, and the police, will be left to pick up the pieces, despite lacking the specialist knowledge, capacity, or resources to provide the same level of care. This isn’t just a funding issue; it’s a crisis that will place even more strain on frontline services, increasing pressure and costs across the board.

West Dunbartonshire already has the second highest rates of domestic abuse in Scotland, after Dundee. Cutting these services isn’t just a financial decision – it’s a decision that will cost lives.

We call on West Dunbartonshire Council to urgently reconsider these cuts before it’s too late.

– Angela Devine, Chief Executive of Glasgow Women’s Aid

You can help by voicing your concern over the cuts. You can contact:

• West Dunbartonshire Council, Local Elected Members and your local MSP: Voice your dismay at funding cuts, which will result in a loss of experienced Women’s Aid services in West Dunbartonshire.
• By E-mail: [email protected]
• Find your local council representative here: https://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/council/councillors-and-committees/councillor/
  Find your local MSP here: https://www.parliament.scot/msps