It has now been ten years since Clare’s Law was passed, raising awareness and empowering individuals to seek out information about their partners’ history of abuse.
Clare’s Law, also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) allows the police to disclose information to an individual about their partner’s or ex-partner’s previous abusive or violent offending. Jade Nolan, Paralegal in the Care Department at Bromleys Solicitors, explores the importance and application of Clare’s Law in protecting individuals from domestic abuse.
What is Clare’s Law?
Clare’s Law is a police policy that allows individuals to enquire about their partner’s or ex-partner’s history of abusive behaviour. This law was named after Clare Wood, who was tragically murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2009. The policy has been in place for the last ten years, due to the tireless efforts of Michael Brown, the father of Clare Wood.
Michael believed that if Clare had known about her ex-boyfriend’s past, she may have been able to protect herself. His campaign gained significant support and led to the introduction of Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme in England and Wales in 2014 and it was later extended to Scotland in 2016 and Northern Ireland in 2018.
How is information about past abuse shared?
This law consists of two components:-
Right to Ask – This allows individuals to request information from the police about a partner’s history of domestic abuse.
Right to Know – This permits the police to proactively disclose information to protect potential victims if they believe someone is at risk.
What effect has Clare’s Law had?
Since the introduction of Clare’s Law, there has been an increase in awareness and empowerment.
The use of Clare’s Law has significantly increased over the years and applications for Clare’s Law increased from 20,147 in March 2020 to 45,344 in March 2023.
How do I make a Clare’s Law application?
To make a Clare’s Law Application, you can visit your local police station, call the non-emergency number 101, or use an online form if available. Each police force has different procedures, so it is best to check their website for specific instructions.
You will be required to provide some basic information about yourself and the person you are concerned about. The police will assess your application to determine if there is a risk of domestic violence, by conducting background checks and consulting with other agencies.
If a disclosure is made, the police will arrange a safe and confidential way to share the information with you, along with advice and support on how to stay safe.
If you require further information regarding how we can assist with domestic abuse, our Care Proceedings and Children’s Services Team are on hand to help and advise you further. Call us today on 0161 768 1596 or email bromleys@bromleys.co.uk.