Domestic abuse

Clare’s Law - Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme

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Clare’s Law, also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) is a police policy giving people the right to know if their current or ex-partner has any previous history of violence or abuse.  

Under Clare's Law you have the right to:  

• request information from the police about your current or ex-partner because you are worried they may have been abusive in the past and believe they may pose a risk to you  
• request information from the police about the current or ex-partner of a close friend, neighbour or family member, because you are concerned that they might be at risk of domestic abuse  

The ‘right to ask'  

You have a right to ask the police no matter if your enquiry relates to a heterosexual or same-sex relationship, as long as you are aged 16 or older.  

You also have the right to ask about a partner regardless of your (or your neighbour, friend or family member’s) gender identity, ethnicity, race, religion or other characteristics.  

The ‘right to know’  

You have the 'right to know'. This means that if police checks show that your current or ex-partner has a record of violent or abusive behaviour, and they believe you may be at risk, they may decide to proactively share that information with you.  

If you’re worried that your current or former partner has been abusive or violent in the past, Clare’s Law was created to formally give you the right to find out.  

Request information under Clare's Law

Make a Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) application. 

Last updated 28 November 2024