Life-saving Clare’s Law has already saved nearly 280 people from domestic abuse in just two years, police announce today.
Officially named the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, the law was introduced in 2012 after a campaign by the father of Salford murder victim Clare Wood to let people know about their partner’s violent past.
A total of 276 applications for information have been made since the scheme’s launch, and police have made 164 disclosures.
Detective Superintendent Emily Higham said: “The results of this scheme are pleasing, especially when considering the number of people who are better informed thanks to its success.
“The initiative helps to protect victims, families and friends from devastating consequences while also enabling women to take informed action about their relationships and the opportunity to protect them.”
Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd also targeted praised Clare’s Law’s ‘valuable’ role in reducing inter-relationship abuse.
He said: “Tackling domestic violence is a shared responsibility – we all have a part to play to eradicate it.
“Clare’s Law is one of the valuable tools that helps people take control back of their own lives and has made a real difference here in Greater Manchester.”
Clare died at the hands of her ex-boyfriend George Appleton in 2009 and she was unaware of Appleton’s record of violence against women.
At the inquest into her death, the coroner said women should have the right to know about the past of men with whom they were in abusive relationships.
Clare’s Law gives people the opportunity to apply for information about someone they are in a relationship with, or in a relationship with someone they know.
“Nationally, two women a week die due to domestic abuse and our aim is to help victims regain control of their lives and move forwards to secure a safer and happier future,” said Detective Superintendent Higham.
Despite the success of the scheme so far, police are still urging anyone concerned about a partner’s abusive behaviour, or a friend or family member they feel is at risk of violence from their partner.
Police and Crime Commissioner Lloyd said: “Although there is still much more to be done by police and others to improve services to victims of domestic violence, Clare’s Law is a huge step in ensuring the law supports victims and punishes perpetrators.
“We have to continue to urge members of the public to come forward and seek help. If you are being subjected to controlling behaviour you should seek help as early as possible, either from family and friends or from the police. Everyone has the right to live free from fear.”
For further information about the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, or to make a request for information under it, contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or visit your nearest police station.
And for support on domestic abuse, visit endthefear.co.uk or call the Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
If there is any immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, dial 999.
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