A unique research initiative aimed at deepening understanding of domestic abuse in Scotland has been awarded a prestigious Research Collaboration Grant by the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE).
The project, titled Domestic Abuse in Scotland: Towards a Holistic Understanding, will be led by Dr Ilona Cairns from the School of Law and Professor Richard Whitecross of Edinburgh Napier University.
The two-year initiative, running from October 2025 to October 2027, will bring together academics, practitioners, support workers and policy-makers from across Scotland to explore domestic abuse through a series of interdisciplinary workshops.
The workshops will examine the causes of domestic abuse and identify gaps in research, legislation, and support services - particularly those affecting victim-survivors (including children). Topics will span justice (civil and criminal), health, social work and education, with three workshops held in Edinburgh and one at the University of Aberdeen.
“I am delighted to receive this funding with Professor Whitecross,” said Dr Cairns. “Despite significant progress in Scotland, including the landmark Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, domestic abuse remains a serious social issue with far-reaching consequences.
“I am hopeful that these workshops will foster meaningful conversations and lead to tangible improvements in policy and practice.”
The RSE grant is part of a wider funding initiative to support Scotland’s vibrant research sector. Dr Cairns project was one of four granted funding in the Spring 2025 round. Read more on the awards here.