"Clare's law" Scots pilot begins next week

The Scots pilot scheme allowing women and men to access information on their new partners’ offending history begins next week.

From Tuesday 25 November, Police Scotland’s Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse, also known as "Clare’s law", will be trialed for six months in Ayrshire and Aberdeen.

It is hoped that, following assessment, the scheme can be rolled out nationally next year.

At the launch of the scheme, Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawson said it would give people who might be concerned about domestic abuse, information to assist in making an informed decision on whether to continue in the relationship.

“I would encourage anyone who is worried their partner could be abusive, who feels intimidated, as if they are ‘walking on eggshells’ for example, to consider applying to the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland for information about their partner's abusive past", he added.

Welcoming the scheme, Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill commented: “This pilot gives reassurance to the public and is backed by organisations such as Scottish Women’s Aid, who are hugely supportive.

“It is important that the practical implementation is tested to ensure that it is suitable for Scotland’s unique justice system. That’s why I am keen to see how this scheme works in the two pilot areas and continue to work with Police Scotland to look at new ways of protecting the public which will deliver benefits for the wider community."