Angela Constance MSP last week spoke at the official launch of the Dogs Trust Freedom Project In Scotland. The Dog Trust are a UK wide charity with a rehoming centre In Harburn, West Lothian and their landmark freedom project which is a dog fostering service for people fleeing domestic abuse.
Speaking at the event Angela Constance MSP, who was social worker before she was elected to the Scottish Parliament, said -
"i have seen the first hand devastating impact of domestic abuse and I very much welcome the Dog Trust Freedom Project to Scotland. The Dog Trust are a UK wide charity with a rehoming centre in Harburn West Lothian and their landmark freedom project which operates across Scotland is a much needed dog fostering service for those people fleeing domestic abuse and violence. Perpetrators of domestic abuse will often harm animals as a way of frightening or trying to control their victims. Not wanting to leave a beloved pet behind with the perpetrator can act as a barrier to women seeking help as they will worry about the animals welfare or upsetting their children further. As a nation of dog lovers it great to see this new dog fostering service which will help to provide a lifeline to women who feel trapped. There are also very few Women's refugees that accept pets so this service is a great comfort to families who know their pet is being well cared for while they wait for their new accommodation. The project depends on volunteers who foster the pets on a temporary basis so I appeal to anyone who is interested in providing a helping hand to a family during a difficult time to get in touch with the dog trust to find out more"
01506 460403
angela.constance.msp@parliament.scot
Unit 4, Ochil House, Beveridge Square, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6QF