Proposed domestic homicide and suicide review model: phase two/workshop one report

2. Testing the Model – an overview

The work to develop Scotland’s Domestic Homicide and Suicide Review (DHSR) model includes testing and evaluation of the model to ensure it is robust and fit for purpose before it is rolled out. Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA) was asked by the Scottish Government’s Violence Against Women and Girls Justice Unit, to support the testing of the model in a phased manner. This phased approach consists of:

Phase 1: A facilitated walk through of the proposed DHSR process – a workshop with a range of experts and stakeholders was held on 27 November 2024. A report on this has been published here: Testing Scotland's proposed domestic homicide and Suicide review model: phase one report and SG response - gov.scot.

Phase 2: Three workshops testing different elements of the review process with a more detailed focus on:

• Workshop 1: The process of establishing a Domestic Homicide or Suicide Case Review – a workshop was held on 28 October 2025.
• Workshop 2: Conducting a Domestic Homicide or Suicide Review – not yet delivered.
• Workshop 3: Facilitating learning from a Domestic Homicide or Suicide Review – not yet delivered.

Phase 3: A mock review to test the model in practice.

This report shares the learning identified from the Phase 2, Workshop 1 held on 28 October 2025.

AAFDA and the Scottish Government extend their thanks to the workshop participants for their attendance, active participation and sharing of knowledge and experience