Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Scheme Uncovered 11,500 Abusive Partners Since 2015
Over 20,000 Requests Reveal Shocking Abuse Histories
Since 2015, Police Scotland’s Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse in Scotland (DSDAS) has revealed the dark pasts of more than 11,500 abusive partners. With over 20,000 information requests made, the scheme is a vital weapon in the fight against domestic abuse, giving victims and those at risk the crucial info they need to stay safe.
Abuse Creeps In Slowly, Says Police Expert
Detective Superintendent Gillian Faulds, head of Domestic Abuse at Police Scotland, warned about the sneaky tactics abusers use. “Abuse doesn’t just happen overnight. It creeps in gradually, making it hard for victims to spot and act,” she said. The DSDAS scheme empowers those at risk to make tough decisions once they know the truth.
Two Routes to Reveal Abuse: ‘Right to Ask’ and ‘Power to Tell’
- Right to Ask: Concerned partners, friends or family can apply to uncover an abuser’s past.
- Power to Tell: Professionals like police or partner agencies can request info if they suspect abuse might be happening.
This two-pronged approach means anyone worried can get the answers they need – fast.
Speak Up! One Alert Can Save Lives
Faulds urged the public to step up. “Friends, family, colleagues, neighbours – if you think someone is at risk, apply for a disclosure. It only takes one person to help stop the horrors of domestic abuse.”
Applications can be made online, via 101, or at any police station. Each case is processed within 45 days or less, giving people speedy access to life-changing information.
