Nearly 250 North East women use Clare's Law to check partner's domestic violence history

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, allows police to disclose information about previous violent offending by a new or existing partner.

Known as Clare’s Law – after 36-year-old Clare Wood, who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend – it was introduced in March 2014, alongside Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) and Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs), which allow police and magistrates to put measures in place to protect victims.

Between March and December 2014, Northumbria Police received 245 applications for disclosure, of which 62 were approved, and 272 DVPOs and DVPNs were issued.

Detective Superintendent Lisa Orchard said: “When disclosures are made, this allows someone to make a decision whether or not to stay with someone when they know they have a record of violence.

“We would always encourage people to come forward and seek out information if they have concerns.

“It is also the case that other people can also make an application if they have concerns for a friend or loved one.

“If there is material of concern, then information will be disclosed to those affected and this will be done in the most suitable and safe manner.

Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird said: “There are around 83 reports of domestic violence a day in the Northumbria area and we are committed to doing all we can to help see this number fall.”