A DOMESTIC abuse disclosure scheme known as Clare's Law will be piloted in Ayrshire and Aberdeen.

The scheme will allow people to find out whether their partner has a history of domestic abuse. It will start in late November and run for six months.

Under the project, anyone who fears a partner is abusive, or may have a violent past, will be able to request past information to be revealed.

The decision to release information will lie with a multi-agency forum.

The scheme is named after Clare Wood, 36, who was murdered five years ago by her ex-boyfriend George Appleton at her home in Salford. He had a history of violence against women.

It was rolled out across England and Wales earlier this year.

Chief Constable Steve House proposed plans for a Scottish version of Clare's Law in May.

The chosen areas and dates for the Scottish pilot were announced on Monday at the latest meeting of the multi-agency board set up to develop the scheme.

This body includes representatives from police, the Scottish Government, the crown office, ASSIST advocacy services and Scottish Women's Aid.

The pilot areas were chosen because they both have a varied population and include people who may benefit from the scheme.

There will be an evaluation of how effective the pilots were before the expected roll out across the whole of Scotland next year.

Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawson said: "I find it extremely encouraging that more and more victims of domestic abuse have the strength and confidence to report domestic abuse however we are not complacent.

"I believe the introduction of the Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland will not only provide a mechanism to share relevant information about a partner's abusive past with their potential victims, it will give people at risk of domestic abuse the information to assist in making an informed decision on whether to continue in the relationship."

Disclosures can be triggered by victims, families or a member of the public concerned about a domestic abuse victim, or public authorities, such as the police or social work.

Mr Mawson added: "The decision to disclose will lie with a multi-agency forum, taking all parties' rights and needs into account.

"When the decision is taken to share information through the Scheme, the person receiving the information will be fully supported."

Mr Mawson stressed that police would continue to take a zero tolerance approach to domestic abuse throughout the country.

He said: "I would like to reassure communities the length and breadth of the country that while the pilot is running and subsequently being evaluated that it will be business as usual for Police Scotland in helping people through the ordeal of domestic abuse.

"There is no excuse for domestic abuse and if you feel you are in danger or know someone who may be in danger then please contact us."

Cabinet Secretary for Justice Kenny MacAskill welcomed the announcement.

He said: "It is only right that people in relationships should have the opportunity to seek the facts about their partner's background if, for example, they suspect their partner has a history of violent behaviour."

rachel.loxton@eveningtimes.co.uk