Clare’s Law: You Have the Right to Ask
Because safety shouldn’t depend on what you don’t know
You can ask the police if someone has a history of abuse.
Most people don’t know that.
Clare’s Law exists so you don’t have to rely on instinct alone when your safety is at risk.
What is Clare’s Law?
Clare’s Law - formally the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme - allows police to share information about a person’s history of abusive or violent behaviour. It exists to help prevent harm before it happens.
Why it exists
Clare Wood was murdered in 2009 by her ex-partner. He had a known history of violence - but she was never told. Clare’s Law was introduced so that information like this can be disclosed where there is a real risk.
Your rights under Clare’s Law
You can make a request if:
You think you may be at risk from a current or ex-partner
You’re worried about someone else’s safety
You’re a professional supporting someone at risk
This is known as the “Right to Ask.”
Police can also proactively share information if they believe someone is at risk - this is the “Right to Know.”
What actually happens
A disclosure is not automatic
Police will assess whether there is a credible risk of harm
Information is only shared if it is necessary to protect someone
The disclosure is made directly to the person at risk, not to third parties
This is about safeguarding - not general access to someone’s past.
Is it confidential?
Yes.
The person you’re asking about will not be told you made a request
Your enquiry is handled privately by the police
How to apply
You can request a disclosure:
Online (via your local police website)
In person at a police station
If applying on behalf of someone else, the police will speak directly to the person at risk.
If you’re in immediate danger
Call 999.
Clare’s Law is a preventative tool - not an emergency response.
Why this matters
Too often, women are expected to spot risk without being given the information that could protect them. Clare’s Law shifts that - even if only partially.
But awareness is still low. And a right you don’t know about isn’t a right you can use.
