POLICE LAUNCH DISCLOSURE SCHEME TO PROTECT VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE A landmark pilot scheme that allows individuals to apply for information about their partner’s offending history has officially been launched in Ayr today, Tuesday 25 November 2014. The six-month pilot for the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland gives people who are at risk of domestic abuse the right to ask for a police check to be made on them. The scheme will be piloted in Ayrshire and the City of Aberdeen starting today, Tuesday 25 November 2014, to coincide with the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and will run across the festive period, when traditionally there are spikes in incidents of domestic abuse. The new scheme comes after a similar programme was introduced in England and Wales following the murder of Clare Wood by her ex-boyfriend in Salford in 2009. She was unaware of his history of violence against women. There have been over 3000 incidents of domestic abuse recorded by police in Ayrshire since April this year. The trial scheme will run for six months and will be thoroughly evaluated. If deemed successful, consideration will be given to its ‘roll out’ across Scotland. Speaking at today’s launch at South Ayrshire Women’s Aid, Supt Neil Kerr, of Ayrshire Division, said “Tackling domestic abuse is a key priority for the police and this scheme will allow us to share information about an abuser’s past with a potential victim. 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 scheme has been developed in conjunction with the Scottish Government, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scottish Women’s Aid and ASSIST advocacy services to ensure that the victim is firmly at the centre of the support system. Domestic abuse in any form can have a devastating effect on people with long-term consequences. Police Scotland is committed to providing a robust response to every domestic abuse incident reported to us and we will continue to work with partners to help safeguard potential victims of domestic abuse so they feel safe in their home and in the community.” 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. A two-week marketing campaign will commence to promote the new scheme locally in Ayrshire and in Aberdeen, including radio adverts on Westsound and posters in washrooms and changing rooms in shopping centres, bars and public buildings. For more information visit our web site: scotland.police.uk.
Posted on: Tue, 25 Nov 2014 11:54:21 +0000
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