Clare’s Law (also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme or DVDS) allows people to find out whether a current or former partner has a history of violent or abusive behaviour that might put them at risk.
The background
Clare’s Law was first introduced in England and Wales in 2014. It is named after Clare Wood, who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2009. He had a known history of violence that she wasn’t aware of.
The scheme was created to help prevent similar tragedies by enabling people to make informed decisions about their relationship and personal safety. In 2021, Clare’s Law was given statutory recognition as part of the Domestic Abuse Act.
How it works
There are two parts to the Law:
- The Right to Ask. Any individual or relevant third party (such as a friend or family member) can request information from the police about their partner or ex-partner.
- The Right to Know. Police may proactively disclose information if they believe someone may be at risk of harm from a partner or ex-partner.
How do I know whether to make a Clare’s Law request?
You might want to make a Clare’s Law request if:
- you have concerns or “red flags” about a partner’s behaviour
- you are worried about your safety in a relationship
- you think there might be a history of violence or abuse
If you are unsure, you can speak to a support service such as Oasis, who can help you think through your options and what feels safe for you.
How to make a request
You can apply for a Clare’s Law disclosure either online or at a police station. During the application, you’ll be asked to provide your personal information, details of the person you are enquiring about (including their full name, any aliases, date of birth or approximate age, and their address or local area). Police will then review the available information, including records and relevant intelligence.
If a risk is identified, they may share information with you. This is usually done in person, and often alongside support services, to help you understand the information and consider any next steps safely. The information provided is not a full criminal record, but a summary relevant to protecting someone at risk.
Making a Clare’s Law request is confidential and will not be disclosed to your partner.