The number of homicides across Scotland last year has reached their lowest point since records began in 1976.
The latest official figures, released today, show 53 people were the victim of homicide in 2021/22, six fewer than the previous year and 54% fewer than when the SNP Government took office 15 years ago.
This year, the SNP Government has provided partners with over £2 million for ongoing and new innovative violence prevention activity across Scotland, including an increase of 14% to the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit’s budget.
This funding builds on more than £24 million in SNP Government investment since 2008, as part of sustained efforts to prevent violence. This includes providing more than £16 million to the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit and over £4.5 million to No Knives, Better Lives, a nationwide programme aimed at deterring young people from anti-social behaviour and carrying knives.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Scotland continues to be a safe place to live and this latest reduction in homicides is in line with the significant downward trend seen in other categories of violent crime over the past 15 years.
“However, every death caused by homicide is a tragedy that leaves grieving families and friends in its wake, which is why the SNP Government continues to heavily invest in supporting prevention work with people of all ages, and ensuring Scotland's law enforcement agencies and courts have the resources to deal with those who harm others.
“In recognition of the fact that more than half of female victims were killed by a partner or ex-partner, the SNP Government is also working on additional measures to help prevent and reduce the number of homicides related to domestic abuse and to give a voice to those who have been killed.”
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