The Scottish Women’s Rights Centre (SWRC) was launched on 22 April 2015 to ensure that women in Scotland who have or are experiencing gender based violence are able to access timely and appropriate legal advice and information.
Women are able to call the centre’s helpline for legal information and advice on any aspect of gender based violence.
The Centre is a partnership project between Rape Crisis Scotland, the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic and Just Right Scotland. Volunteers from the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic assist solicitors with the staffing the helplines as well as case-work and administrative support.
Rape Crisis Scotland spokeswoman Sandy Brindley said:
“Women in Scotland who have experienced rape, domestic abuse or any other form of violence against women need access to free, specialist legal advice and support.
“This could be to help make them aware of their rights to protective orders in cases of domestic abuse and/or stalking, advice on housing & welfare issues, or responding to queries about their role as a witness following the report of a rape or sexual assault.
“We are delighted to be involved in the development of this exciting new service, which we believe will make a significant difference to the lives of women in Scotland.”
Kathleen Laverty from the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic commented:
“The Law Clinic is delighted to be part of the efforts to plug this gap in legal provision. This is a much needed service and one which we hope to develop and grow over time”
Kirsty Thomson, Partner and Director at JustRight Scotland, said:
“At JustRight Scotland we believe in collaborative social justice – the idea that social justice is better achieved when lawyers work with non-lawyers across sectors and in partnership, pooling expertise and resources. For this reason, we are delighted to have the opportunity to join forces with the Scottish Women’s Rights Centre, expanding provision of legal advice and information, with the shared aim of realising human rights and increasing access to justice for women and children in Scotland.”
The Scottish Women’s Rights Centre Helpline runs every Monday afternoon from 2pm – 5pm, Tuesday evening from 6pm – 8pm, Wednesday morning from 11am – 2pm and Friday morning from 10am – 1pm. Freephone: 08088 010 789.