Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland
Click here if you want to navigate away from this page quickly.
Information about the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland and what happens after you put an application in.
On this page:
What is the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland?
Domestic abuse outside of Scotland
What is the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland?
The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) gives people the right to ask about the background of their partner.
It also allows concerned relatives and friends, the right to ask about someone’s partner. They can ask if they have been abusive in the past.
DSDAS also gives Police Scotland the power to tell people that they may be at risk. This information can be given if it is not asked for.
Where we have information that a person may be at harm of domestic abuse by their partner, we have the power to tell them.
DSDAS allows people to make the choice on whether to remain in the relationship.
Police Scotland and our partners can then help and support them.
You can have an application filled out for you at your local police station.
You can also print off a copy of the application form and post it to: Police Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Coordination Unit, Clyde Gateway, 2 French Street, Dalmarnock, Glasgow G40 4EH.
Putting an application in
After the application is submitted it is passed to one of Police Scotland’s domestic abuse departments. The information will be added to a DSDAS database.
We might need to contact you for more information. We'll get in touch in a way you've asked for.
A decision will then be made to release information. This will only be done if there is a risk.
It will be given to the person potentially at risk, or another person close to them.
Related information
Some information to look at if you are considering putting in an application.
Domestic abuse outside of Scotland
In England or Wales, the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (also known as Clare’s Law) is in place. You should get in touch with your local police service for information.
In Northern Ireland, please contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland for more information.
Related links
What can I do if this is happening to someone I know? page for information to assist someone you know who is affected by domestic abuse.
Partners and other organisations page provides information of people who can help.
