Ways to protect yourself from Domestic Abuse
On this page you will find information on:
Useful contacts
Clare’s Law
Injunctions.
Useful Contacts
NCDV - Applying for an emergency injunction
Domestic Violence & Abuse · Emergency Injunction Service
FLOWS (for advice and support on applying for non-molestation or occupation orders)
LawWorks Clinic Network
Law Centres Network
Advocate
Support Through Court
Clare’s Law
Is a free scheme where you can request information to find out if the person you’re dating / in a relationship with has a history of abusive and controlling behaviour, including whether they’ve ever been arrested or charged with abuse against an ex-partner.
Clare’s Law is confidential, the person you ask us about will not know you’ve requested information about them.
How to Request Information about a partner
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With our Help
We can help you to complete the online DVDS application form.
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Online
You can complete the online DVDS application form yourself, in your own time.
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By Telephone
By calling 101 and asking to make a DVDS application.
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In Person
By attending your local police station and asking to make a DVDS application.
The aim of Clare’s Law is to give you information - this is called a disclosure.
We can make the application on your behalf, but the information will only be shared with you / the person who is in the relationship.
Clare’s Law is confidential, the person you ask us about will not know you’ve requested information about them.
If something doesn’t feel right – trust your instincts and consider a Clare’s Law application. Knowledge is power in deciding whether the person is really someone one you want to be with.
Injunctions
If you are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse, there are several ways the law can protect you. One way is via an injunction and there are several types commonly used in cases of domestic abuse.
An injunction is a court order that prevents someone from doing something.
There are several types of injunctions that can be used to protect someone from domestic abuse. The most common family law injunctions are non-molestation orders, occupation orders, forced marriage protection orders and Prohibited Steps Orders.
The most common criminal law injunctions are restraining orders, domestic violence protection orders and stalking protection orders.
For further information please see the Rights of Women information pack:
