The Scottish Parliament is in recess from 28 June to 31 August. We will respond to petitions as soon as we can.
If your petition is seeking emergency action or an urgent policy change, we would advise you to contact one of your 8 MSPs or the Scottish Government directly. Please be aware that the public petitions process is a thorough and often lengthy process and is not designed to respond to emergencies.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
The Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Team
Under consideration PE2136: Make non-fatal strangulation a standalone criminal offence in Scotland
Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to make non-fatal strangulation a standalone criminal offence in Scotland.
Background information
Non-fatal strangulation (NFS) is increasingly recognised as a severe form of domestic abuse. In June 2022, England & Wales made NFS a standalone crime, followed by Ireland in 2023. Scotland must urgently address the dangers posed by NFS. NFS is a significant predictor of homicide in abusive relationships, with victims being 8 times more likely to be killed. The act can cause brain damage, organ failure, mental ill health, and death. Victims often describe NFS as a near-death experience, with 80% suffering lasting impacts. Women are disproportionately affected, with a 2024 review showing that 81% of NFS victims were women, and 97% of perpetrators were male. The introduction of NFS legislation in England & Wales has revealed the extent of this crime. Between June and December 2022, 8,375 NFS offences were reported, with 971 charges. These figures reflect the prevalence and urgency of addressing this form of abuse. Scotland must follow the example set to protect women and girls by making NFS a standalone crime.
2,122 signatures
This petition is now under consideration
Click here for further information about the consideration of this petition.