Nearly 20,000 People Informed of Partners’ Abusive Histories

Almost 20,000 individuals have been alerted to their partners’ histories of abusive behavior since the launch of the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) on 1 October 2015. This initiative allows anyone with concerns about a partner—or the partner of someone they know—to inquire with Police Scotland regarding any record of abuse.

Since its inception, the scheme has received a total of 35,847 applications, resulting in 19,867 disclosures. This means approximately 55% of all requests have led to notifications about abusive histories. Detective Superintendent Adam Brown emphasized the scheme’s role in preventing domestic abuse, stating, “Before the DSDAS scheme, there was no formal way for an individual to find out if their partner had a previous history of abusive behavior.”

The DSDAS operates through two main avenues: the Right to Ask and the Power to Tell. Under the Right to Ask, anyone who suspects their partner may pose a risk can submit an application. The Power to Tell allows professionals, including police officers and social workers, to apply for disclosures when they believe a person could be at risk of domestic abuse.

If background checks reveal a credible threat, the police will share pertinent information with the individual at risk. Detective Superintendent Brown noted that in the 2023-24 period alone, Police Scotland recorded over 63,500 incidents of domestic abuse. He elaborated, “Domestic abuse is not just physical; it can include coercive control, psychological, emotional, and sexual abuse, plus economic abuse.”

Receiving a disclosure can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their relationships and potentially avoid prolonged periods of abuse. Brown encouraged anyone with concerns to access the DSDAS application form available on the Police Scotland website or to contact local authorities directly.

Support and Resources Available

Linda Rodgers, CEO of Edinburgh Women’s Aid, who attended the launch of DSDAS in 2015, highlighted the scheme’s importance in providing early intervention. She stated, “We know that receiving a disclosure can be a shock to some. However, when those receiving a disclosure realize that the concerning behavior has been done previously to others, it can be the catalyst for them to seek support to leave.”

Rodgers noted an increase in the number of women accessing services since the scheme’s implementation. She encouraged those with concerns about their partners or someone else’s partner to utilize DSDAS. “We can support them in this process if they are not able to do this at home,” she added, urging individuals to reach out to partner organizations capable of offering both practical and emotional support.

Individuals seeking disclosures can apply through the Police Scotland website, by calling 101, or by visiting a local police station. The DSDAS serves as a crucial resource for those navigating the complexities of domestic abuse, ensuring that individuals are informed and empowered in their relationships.