Scheme saves dozens from domestic abuse
Dozens of women in Rutherglen and Cambuslang have halted potentially dangerous relationships after asking police for background information on a new man in their lives.
Women and men from the two towns have used the Right to Ask initiative which allows people to ask if their new partner has a violent past, or been abusive in previous relationships.
Saturday, October 1, marks the first anniversary of the disclosure scheme being rolled out across the country.
Since then 76 women have made an application in South Lanarkshire.
The scheme aims to prevent domestic abuse by empowering both men and women with the Right to Ask about the background of their partner, potential partner or someone who is in a relationship with someone they know, and there is a concern that the individual may be abusive.
Lanarkshire police division has embraced the scheme since the rollout and accounts for approximately one in five applications made in Scotland.
Police officers say they have worked in partnership with support agencies to help potential victims make an informed choice.
Detective chief inspector Donna Duffy said: “The scheme has been a huge success in Lanarkshire and this is just one of many methods which we can use to keep victims of domestic abuse safe.
“I would encourage anyone who has concerns to make the application.
“No one should be at risk of abuse and certainly not within their own home. If you are a victim of abuse then please come forward as we are here to help you.”
The main application route for the scheme is through the online application form on the police Scotland website – www.scotland. police.uk/disclosure and can be accessed by both members of the public and professionals from partner agencies.
Other ways of applying are by calling 101, attending a police office or speaking to a police officer in the street.