North police are backing a national campaign aimed at targeting domestic abuse over the festive period.
The “Love Doesn’t Control” campaign focuses on domestic abuse which takes the form of financial and emotional manipulation.
Police say that this can involve personal freedom being restricted, insults and people being deliberately isolated from their family and friends.
Detective Inspector Fiona Lake of the north divison’s domestic abuse unit highlighted a high profile case which showed their work in the area this year.
She said: “We understand that leaving an abusive relationship can be an enormous step so police and partners are keen to emphasise that we are here to support and assist if you remain with your partner or choose to leave.
“From providing advice on home and personal security to assisting you to a place of safety, police and partners will be here at any time of the year.”
“This year saw domestic abuser Patrick Chinskie, who carried out horrific crimes against women in the Highlands and across Scotland, handed a Life Long Restriction Order at the High Court in Edinburgh. Police Scotland hopes that as well as providing reassurance to Chinskie’s victims, the sentencing highlights just how serious the consequences are for perpetrators of abuse.”
Chinskie was handed a life sentence in February after being convicted of raping five women at various locations including Inverness, Nairn and Aviemore.
Catherine Russell of Inverness Women’s Aid: “Domestic abuse can have a devastating effect on women and their children. It does not take a break over Christmas, and for many the added pressures around this time of year can escalate things.
“If you are in an abusive relationship and want to talk to anyone we are open all throughout the festive period so please ring us”