Check someone's history of domestic abuse
Learn how you can ask about someone’s history of domestic abuse and start an application.
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How you can check someone’s history of domestic abuse
The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS) is a way to find information about whether a person has an abusive past. This information can help prevent someone from experiencing domestic abuse in the future.
You can make a DSDAS application if you or someone you know is at risk of domestic abuse.
Watch our YouTube video on DSDAS to learn more
When we’ll make a disclosure
We’ll only make a disclosure after we:
- consider all factors
- assess the threat carefully
- decide if we need to share information to prevent a person from experiencing domestic abuse
We may also speak to other agencies to make sure a disclosure is the right option
We’ll act immediately if we think you or someone else needs to be protected from harm.
Asking on behalf of someone else
If you’re making the application for someone else, we cannot make the disclosure to you. We can only make a disclosure to the person who is at risk.
How to apply
There are a few ways to apply for a domestic abuse disclosure. You can:
Domestic abuse outside of Scotland
In England or Wales, the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (also called Clare’s Law) is in place. You should speak to your local police service for information.
In Northern Ireland, contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland for more information.
Get help with domestic abuse
If you or someone else needs more support to protect yourself, you can read our guidance on domestic abuse.