Ayr Sheriff Court handled 906 cases related to domestic abuse or stalking during 2025/26, according to new Crown Office statistics. Together with cases heard at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court, the figure means Ayrshire’s courts dealt with 2,275 cases linked to domestic abuse or stalking during the year.
The figures provide a year-long picture of cases reaching the courts in the region, with 1,369 cases involving domestic abuse heard at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court and a further 906 handled by Ayr Sheriff Court.
National cases reach highest level since 2014/15
Across Scotland, 34,586 charges carrying a domestic abuse identifier were reported in 2025/26. That was 14 per cent higher than the previous year and the highest annual total recorded since 2014/15.
More than nine in 10 of the reported charges resulted in a decision to prosecute. Court proceedings were initiated in 31,563 cases, equivalent to 91 per cent of all domestic abuse charges reported.
The statistics cover charges carrying a domestic abuse identifier, as well as the cases related to domestic abuse or stalking handled by the two Ayrshire sheriff courts. They do not, in the supplied figures, provide a breakdown of outcomes for the 906 cases handled at Ayr Sheriff Court.
Lord Advocate highlights seriousness of reports
Lord Advocate Ruth Charteris KC said the increase in reports was concerning, particularly where cases involved some of the most serious offending.
“It is concerning for all of us that the number of reports has increased, particularly those involving some of the most serious offending.”
She said Scotland needed to change and described ending domestic abuse as an issue for everyone to address by challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours.
“Perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions through robust prosecution that reflects the nature and seriousness of their offending.”
Ms Charteris also said victims should be assured that prosecutors would listen to them, take them seriously, recognise their experiences and support them through the legal process.
Women’s Aid calls for consistent support
Dr Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, welcomed the increase in prosecutions under Section 1 of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, describing it as a positive use of the law.
She said it was not possible to identify the exact reason for the increase in the other figures, but suggested increased awareness of domestic abuse and greater confidence in reporting as possible explanations.
“Any report of a domestic abuse offence is a cause for concern, and these figures are a stark reminder of the level of harm occurring every day.”
Dr Scott called for urgent and consistent action across all systems to prevent future harm and ensure survivors and their children receive a competent response that maximises their safety. She added that the majority of women never report their experiences.
Support is available through Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline on 0800 027 1234 and through sdafmh.org.uk.
