Scottish Government asks GCU to lead new study into stalking and coercive control

Researchers from GCU will examine how the criminal justice system treats victims of stalking and coercive control as part of new Scottish Government measures to tackle domestic abuse.

Justice Secretary Humza Youzaf has commissioned a research team, led by Dr Nancy Lombard, to record the experiences of women from across Scotland.

The move comes as legislation to give police and the courts new powers to remove domestic abusers from victims’ homes are set to be introduced to Parliament.

The Domestic Abuse Bill, if passed, would mean police can issue a short-term notice barring a suspected abuser from the home of a person in danger.

Dr Lombard said: “The study will explore the lived experiences of victims of stalking and coercive control as they navigate their way through the criminal justice system. 

"It is important to recognise that despite victim-centred policy priorities and support; the abuse may persist beyond conviction, sentencing, and punishment. As such, victims can continue to feel disempowered and controlled. Through this research, we want to enable those women to have their say. 

"Taking account of the current climate we will also be asking about how COVID has impacted on those living with abuse."​ 

The research team includes Dr Katy Proctor, lecturer in Criminology and Policing at GCU, Katy Mathieson, Coordinator of the Scottish Women’s Rights Centre, and Dr Nel Whiting, Equality Charters Advisor at AHE.