Legal “right to know” if partner has history of violence 18/8/14
People will have a legal “right to know” if their partner has a history of domestic violence under a new law.
A similar system, known as Clare's Law, was set up in England and Wales earlier this year.
Clare Wood, 36, of Manchester was brutally strangled and set on fire by her boyfriend George Appleton in 2009.
The mother-
The Scottish disclosure scheme is expected to roll out in 2015. A trial to test the efficiency of the initiative will take place in Aberdeen and Ayrshire this winter.
Under the new rules, people will be able to ask police to disclose whether an individual has a record of domestic abuse or violence.
Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawson said: “Tackling domestic abuse is a key priority for Police Scotland and one I have personal experience in leading initiatives on.
“I find it extremely encouraging that more and more victims of domestic abuse have the strength and confidence to report domestic abuse however we are not complacent.
“We continually work with our partners to seek out new ways to improve service provision to victims, and potential victims, of domestic abuse.”
He believes the initiative “will give people at risk of domestic abuse the information to assist in making an informed decision on whether to continue in the relationship.”
He added: “Disclosures through the scheme can be triggered by victims themselves, family members or another member of the public concerned about the victim, or public authorities such as the police or social work.
Mr Mawson added that irrespective of the pilot schemes, Police Scotland will continue to take a zero tolerance approach to all forms of domestic abuse.
He said: “There is no excuse for domestic abuse and if you feel you are in danger or know someone who may be in danger then please contact us. We have specialist local teams who will investigate your complaint and support you.”