A pilot scheme against domestic violence called “Clare’s Law” has been introduced, after a campaign for a change in law was launched in the regard by Michael Brown, whose daughter Clare Wood died after being strangled and set ablaze by her ex-boyfriend at her home in Salford in 2009.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), which begins today in Greater Manchester, allows women the “right to know” their partner’s history through a formal mechanism.

The information may be disclosed by the police at the request of the person herself or through an agency which makes a decision to reveal the information to protect a potential victim. Also, the information is dispensed only to someone who has concerns that their partner may harm them or a third party, such as a parent, neighbour or friend who has concerns about someone’s safety.

After a police investigation, if it is found that the person may be a potential victim of domestic, only then police may consider disclosing the information to the concerned woman.

36-year-old Clare Wood, a mother of one, had met George Appleton on Facebook, who fled after killing her and eventually hanged himself. Clare had no inkling regarding his abusive past against women, including harassment, threats and the kidnapping of one of his ex-girlfriends while threatening her with a knife.

After the tragic loss of his daughter, Michael Brown campaigned for a change of law regarding domestic violence supported by Eccles MP Hazel Blears, who garnered cross-party support for the cause.

Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone said, “It’s just one of a series of measures we have introduced to tackle violence against women and girls. We have also introduced domestic violence homicide reviews and are working with the Association of Chief Police Officers to ensure officers understand the complexities of domestic violence cases.”

Related:
Marie Reid rapist, murderer Jay Soso sentenced to 12 years