Understanding Clare’s Law – Empowering People to Stay Safe from Domestic Abuse

Clare’s Law, officially known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), was introduced in 2014 following the tragic murder of Clare Wood by an ex-partner with a known history of violence against women. The scheme is designed to help individuals make informed decisions about their relationships by providing access to information about a partner’s abusive past. This can help individuals decide whether to:

• Continue or end a relationship
• Protect themselves and their children from a potentially dangerous ex-partner
• Enter a new relationship safely

How The Scheme Works

There are two main routes:

• Right to Ask: Anyone—whether you’re concerned for yourself or someone else—can request information from the police.
• Right to Know: Police may disclose relevant information without a request if they believe someone is at risk.

How to Make a Request

You can apply through any of the following:

• Call 101
• Visit the Staffordshire Police website
• Speak to a police officer or PCSO
• Go to a local police station

Applications are free, confidential, and typically take up to 28 days to process. If there’s an immediate risk, the police can act more quickly.

If there’s an immediate risk to someone’s safety, you should call 999.