Nearly 20,000 Warned of Partners’ Abusive Histories in Scotland

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 October 1, 2015. The initiative allows anyone with concerns about a partner, or the partner of someone they know, to inquire with Police Scotland about any past records of abuse.

Since its inception, DSDAS has received a total of 35,847 applications, resulting in 19,867 disclosures. This equates to just over half—approximately 55% —of all requests processed. Detective Superintendent Adam Brown emphasized the scheme’s role as a critical preventative tool against domestic abuse.

“Before the DSDAS scheme, there was no formal mechanism for individuals to learn if their partner had a history of abusive behavior,” he stated. “The introduction of DSDAS has significantly transformed the landscape of violence against women. It empowers people to ask questions and gives police the authority to inform individuals at risk about their partner’s history, enabling them to make informed decisions.”

Increasing Demand for Safety Information

The demand for this scheme has steadily increased, with approximately 600 applications being submitted each month. DSDAS operates through two primary avenues: the Right to Ask and the Power to Tell. Under the Right to Ask, anyone concerned—be it the individual themselves or their family, friends, or colleagues—can submit an application. The Power to Tell allows professionals, such as police officers, social workers, and medical staff, to request disclosures when they suspect an individual might be at risk of domestic abuse.

When background checks reveal a credible threat, police may share pertinent information with the person at risk, provided the disclosure is lawful, necessary, and proportionate. Detective Superintendent Brown noted that Police Scotland recorded over 63,500 incidents of domestic abuse in the 2023-24 period alone.

He further highlighted that domestic abuse encompasses not only physical violence but also coercive control, psychological, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as economic abuse. The consequences of such abuse can be deeply traumatic and enduring, not just for victims but also for their children.

“Receiving a disclosure can significantly influence individuals’ decisions regarding their relationships and help prevent prolonged suffering,” he added. Individuals can access the DSDAS application form on the Police Scotland website, and Brown encourages anyone with concerns for themselves or someone they know to utilize this resource.

Early Intervention and Support

Linda Rodgers, CEO of Edinburgh Women’s Aid, attended the launch of DSDAS and believes the scheme serves as an essential early intervention tool. “Receiving a disclosure can be shocking for some. However, when individuals understand that concerning behaviors have been exhibited by their partners in the past, it often motivates them to seek support and leave the relationship, recognizing that it is not their fault,” she explained.

Rodgers reported an increase in the number of women utilizing their services since the scheme began. She urged anyone with concerns about their partner, or about someone else’s partner, to take advantage of DSDAS. “We can assist them in navigating this process if they feel unable to do so on their own,” she said.

Support is also available from various partner organizations, which provide both practical and emotional assistance. Those interested in applying for a disclosure can do so through the Police Scotland website, by calling 101, or by visiting a local police station.

The DSDAS initiative continues to evolve, offering individuals the chance to safeguard their well-being and make informed decisions about their relationships.