More than 2,000 people have requested details of their partner's previous convictions

Thousands of people have used new legislation to check if their partner has an abusive past.

The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse in Scotland was introduced two years ago – allowing Scots to check if their partner has a history of abusive behaviour.

Figures released by Police Scotland revealed that 2,144 requests had been made under the scheme – leading to 927 people being told that their partner has a previous history of abuse.

Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, said that the scheme has helped provide more information.

She said: “Scottish Women’s Aid is glad to mark the second anniversary of Scotland’s domestic abuse disclosure scheme.

“We are a big fan of the idea that information is power, and the more information women have about the domestic abuse histories of their partners and ex-partners, the better.”

The legislation has been dubbed Clare’s Law – after Clare Wood, who was murdered by her abusive ex-boyfriend in 2009.

Detective Superintendent Gordon McCreadie said: “DSDAS is one way in which we can get ahead of the curve, helping to prevent people from becoming victims before abuse occurs.

“It empowers individuals, or others who care for their well-being, to take control of their future, enabling access to important information which will help them make an informed decision about whether it is right for them, and perhaps their children, to remain in a relationship with someone who may have a history of domestic abuse.”