Using a Claire's Law Disclosure to Check a Partner

What the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme Can and Cannot Do

The domestic violence disclosure scheme, often called Claire’s Law, lets you ask the police whether a partner has a history of domestic abuse. It operates in England and Wales, with similar schemes in Scotland and Northern Ireland. You may hear it called the right to ask, because you can make the request yourself. There is also the right to know, where police or another agency decide to disclose information proactively if they believe you are at risk. This is not a general criminal record check and not a guarantee of safety. A partner with no police record can still be dangerous. What the scheme does is give trained officers a lawful, confidential route to share relevant information so you can make informed choices.

How to Ask for a Disclosure

Contact the police by calling 101, using a non-emergency online form, or visiting a police station. Ask specifically for the domestic violence disclosure scheme or Claire’s Law. If you are in immediate danger, call 999. You can ask about a current or former partner, or a concerned friend, family member, colleague or support worker can ask on your behalf. You do not need to have reported a crime.

• Right to ask: you or a third party can request a check.
• Right to know: police may disclose information even without a request.
• What is checked: convictions, cautions, protective orders, intelligence and past call-outs.
• What it is not: a DBS check or a replacement for safety planning.

Give clear examples of behaviour that worries you, even if it feels small. Trained officers handle requests confidentially and will usually avoid alerting the person you are asking about.

What Happens After You Make a Request

Your request is reviewed by officers trained in domestic abuse risk assessment. They decide whether disclosure is lawful, necessary and proportionate. Urgent cases are prioritised, but a full decision can take a few weeks. There are three common outcomes: a disclosure, where an officer shares information in a safe meeting; a partial disclosure, where only some information can be shared; or no disclosure. No disclosure does not mean the person is safe. It may mean there is no police information to share, or that sharing it would put someone else at risk. If information is disclosed, the officer should discuss what it means for your safety and help you plan next steps. You can ask questions and ask to be referred to a specialist domestic abuse service.

Staying Safe and Finding Refuge Support

A disclosure can bring relief, fear or confusion. Do not confront your partner with what you have been told unless a trained officer or support worker says it is safe. Confrontation can increase danger. Use a device your partner cannot access, and agree a code word with someone you trust. Keep essential documents, medication, a spare charger and some money in a bag you can reach quickly.

Refuges provide safe, confidential accommodation. Addresses are not shared publicly, and staff are trained to manage risk. Many offer self-contained or shared flats, support workers, help with benefits and housing, school moves for children, and emotional support. Some are women-only; there are also specialist services for men, LGBT+ survivors, older people, disabled survivors and Black, Asian and minority ethnic survivors. You can ask a national domestic abuse helpline, your local council’s housing team, a local outreach service, or the police to refer you. Some services accept self-referrals. An Independent Domestic Violence Advisor can help with safety planning, court processes, housing and practical next steps, whether you stay or leave.

Support Is There Whether You Stay or Leave

Leaving is not the only way to get support, and you do not have to decide today. Outreach workers can meet you in a safe place, help you understand your options, and support you with finances, housing, health and children’s needs. Peer support groups reduce isolation, and counselling can help you process what has happened. If you are worried about someone else, you can make a Claire’s Law request on their behalf. The disclosure scheme is one tool among many. It works best as part of a wider safety plan, with trained officers and domestic abuse professionals alongside you. Whatever you choose, you deserve information, respect and support.