A pilot scheme to tackle domestic abuse in Scotland has been launched in Aberdeen and Ayrshire on a six month trial period.
The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland, also known as Clare’s Law, allows people to find out if their partner has a history of domestic violence.
Six Month Pilot
The pilot is based on a similar pilot scheme launched in England and Wales to tackle domestic violence. The law is named after Clare Wood who was killed by her ex-boyfriend in 2009. Her partner had a history of domestic violence towards women which she was unaware of.
If the pilot scheme is successful in the six month period in Ayr and Aberdeen it could be rolled out across Scotland. According to the Home Office, the trial run in England and Wales saved over 100 people from domestic violence.
"Worth It's Weight In Gold"
Clare’s father, Michael Brown, who campaigned for the law to implemented, welcomed the pilot scheme which was developed by the Scottish Government, the Crown Office, the Procurator Fiscal Service and Scottish Women's Aid.
He said: "It is not acceptable that domestic abuse exists in this day and age and the sooner people are helped to get out of that environment the better.
"It not only affects the person who is being abused but their wider network including their parents, any children they may have and friends.
"If Clare had known George Appleton's background she almost certainly wouldn't have become involved with him and if I had the knowledge I have now perhaps something could have been done and Clare would still be here today.”
He added: "This scheme is another way to help people and I can only see it as a good thing. If it prevents just one child from growing up without a mother or a father it will be worth its weight in gold."
Police Priority
Superintendent Neil Kerr of Police Scotland said that the pilot will be closely monitored and that tackling domestic abuse in Scotland remains a key priority for the police.
He said: "Many people recognise the signs of abuse in their partner before it actually starts, such as jealousy or controlling behaviour.
"Applying through this scheme will ultimately assist those who are worried about their partner's behaviour to make a more informed decision about whether to remain in the relationship."
The Scottish Government is set to invest £34.5 million pounds to tackle domestic abuse against women in Scotland.
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