Police in the Highlands and islands have highlighted a scheme which enables people concerned about domestic abuse the opportunity to ask about their partner’s past.
The National Disclosure Scheme was rolled out across Scotland in October last year, and gives men and women a formal method to make enquiries about partners to find out if they have a history of violence or abuse.
Detective Inspector Caroline MacKay said: “Police Scotland and our partners are focused on tackling domestic abuse all year round. We want to remind people that help and support is always available, 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
“We wish to highlight the benefits of the new Disclosure scheme: The information a person could gain through this scheme will assist any victim of domestic abuse in making an informed decision as to whether or not to continue their relationship.
“It is our hope that if any victims discover that their partner has been previously been involved in crimes of domestic abuse, it may empower the individual to make a change and not tolerate any future abusive behaviour.”
Heather Williams, manager of Ross-shire Women’s Aid, said: “In our line of work, we see the impact domestic abuse has on far too many women and families.
“We are glad that more women feel confident in the response from statutory agencies and are coming forward to report abuse to the police. However, we know that the numbers engaging with the police are still the tip of the iceberg.”