MORE than one thousand people have asked for information about their partner since the launched of the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse in Scotland.

It has found that, of the 2144 request made to DSDAS since the scheme began in October 2015, 927 people have been told that their partner has an abusive past.

Nearly 59,000 incidents of domestic abuse were reported to Police Scotland in 2016-17, an average of one incident every nine minutes, making it the greatest single demand on the police service in Scotland.

Detective Superintendent Gordon McCreadie, national lead for Domestic Abuse, said: “Police Scotland remains committed to working with partners to reduce and ultimately eradicate the harm caused by domestic abuse.

"It is a deplorable and debilitating crime which can cause lasting damage to individuals, children and families.

"It is commonly about control with a perpetrator seeking to slowly strip away the liberty, confidence and power of the victim, often through the use of threats, intimidation and violence. 

“DSDAS is one way in which we can get ahead of the curve, helping to prevent people from becoming victims before abuse occurs.

"It empowers individuals, or others who care for their wellbeing, to take control of their future, enabling access to important information which will help them make an informed decision about whether it is right for them, and perhaps their children, to remain in a relationship with someone who may have a history of domestic abuse.

“It is crucial we all play a part. If you are at all concerned about the behaviour of someone you are in a relationship with, please submit a disclosure request. Similarly if you’re concerned for a son, daughter, friend, colleague or neighbour, speak out – you could save their life.”