According to reports in the Telegraph, it is expected that the Government will today announce the launch of a pilot scheme of "Clare's Law" in several counties. The scheme will allow individuals to find out from the police whether their partner has a history of domestic violence.
It is anticipated that the scheme will be trialled in 4 areas of the country, one of which is here in Greater Manchester and that a decision will then be made as to whether the scheme should be implemented nationally. It is hoped that allowing access to the information will help people to avoid getting into abusive relationships or at the least, will allow them to make an informed decision as to whether they want to continue with a relationship which has started.
Some domestic violence charities, including Refuge, are uncertain as to the use and effect of the scheme, and whether it helps will remain to be seen as the scheme gets underway. Refuge, and other domestic violence and women's charities have also been at pains to point out that there are already a raft of measures in place which can help men or women who are suffering any form of abuse within a relationship, and it is important that people are aware of what options are available to help them, and that such remedies are used effectively.
The definition of 'domestic violence' is wide for family law purposes, and anyone who is an an abusive relationship is advised to seek legal advise from a family solicitor as to the various methods by which they can obtain protection and support.
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