Clare’s Law – 16 Days of Activism

As part of their 16 Days of Activism series, our Trauma Ambassadors want to raise awareness of Clare’s Law.

Clare’s Law, which is officially known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), is a scheme that gives people the right to ask if their current or ex-partner has any previous history of violence or domestic abuse. The scheme is named after Clare Wood, who was murdered by a former boyfriend with a known history of violence against women.  The aim of the scheme is to allow someone to make an informed decision about whether or not they wish to be in a relationship if their partner does have a history of violent or abusive behaviour.

If you’re worried your partner or ex-partner might have an abusive past and believe they may pose a risk to you now or in the future, using Clare’s Law, you can make an application to the police to request information about any history of violence or abuse a person might have. You can also make a request for a friend or relative if you’re worried that they may be at risk.  This service is available for people of all genders and sexualities.

Absolutely anyone can apply for a disclosure using Clare’s Law, so if you are worried about your own relationship, or someone else’s, you can make a request for information.

There are lots of different ways to contact the police regarding Clare’s Law. You can:

  • Make an online application for Clare’s Law here. 
  • Visit a police station – go into any police station in Essex and you will be able to talk to someone.
  • Call 101 – the non-emergency police phone number to ask for advice and begin the application for a disclosure.
  • Speak to a police officer on the street – they know what advice to give you and how to start the application process for disclosure.
  • Always call 999 if there is immediate risk to life. (SETDAB website, 2024)

 

If you would like to access support around any of the issues mentioned in this blog, or to share your own lived experience, give the Healthwatch Essex Information & Guidance Service a call on 0300 500 1895, email [email protected] or text/WhatsApp on 07712 395398.

If you would like to find out more about the Trauma Ambassador Group and our work, you can find out more here.