BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY

Cheshire Constabulary′s commitment to protecting victims of domestic abuse moves forward this week as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme is implemented in Cheshire.

The scheme launches as part of the Association of Chief Police Officers national focus on domestic abuse. Over the week Cheshire Police will be supporting the national campaign highlighting how we are improving our support for victims when they speak out about domestic abuse.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme helps anyone with concerns about the person they are in a relationship with to find out if they have a violent past. Also known as Clare′s Law, the scheme allows people to apply to the police and enquire if they have any history of domestic violence.

The scheme came about following the tragic death of Clare Wood, a young woman murdered by her boyfriend at her home in 2009. Clare was unaware her boyfriend had a history of violence against women.

The national scheme will ensure more people can make informed decisions about their relationship and can choose to get out of a relationship that could be abusive.

Detective Chief Inspector, Nigel Wehnam is responsible for introducing the scheme in Cheshire, said:

“Anyone, who has real concerns about their partner, can now make a request by calling Cheshire Police or by speaking to a police officer.

“If you are concerned about your partner − or your friend′s or relative′s partner − we have produced a guide to the process that will be available from local police stations.

“The guide explains how you can make an application, what we do and how information is disclosed under the scheme.”

The guide is also available on Cheshire Constabulary website www.cheshire.police.uk

Nigel said: “The scheme really gives people the chance to have access to information that can help them to make an informed choice about their own safety. Ultimately as police officers we want to protect people from harm.

“Day after day officers are called to deal with victims of domestic violence. The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme for the first time allows people to have access to information that could ultimately protect them from harm.

“Improving our response to domestic abuse is a priority but sadly the Scheme has come too late to protect Clare Wood, but our message here in Cheshire is clear − it is better to be safe, than sorry.”

To reduce the number of people suffering and dying at the hands of someone close to them, the police, central and local government, social care providers, health institutions, probation services and the third sector need to work together to provide the right support at an earlier stage to prevent abuse escalating.

Anyone who is worried that may be at risk of domestic violence should contact the police using the non-emergency number 101, or dial 999 if they are in immediate danger. Speak out and let′s put a stop to domestic violence together.

Police & Crime Commissioner for Cheshire John Dwyer said, “I am delighted that, following the pilot,