CLARE’S LAW is to be introduced in forces across the region - which will allow people to find out if a partner has a history of domestic abuse.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), known as Clare’s Law, allows people to find out from police if someone has a history of violence.

Under the scheme, the partner of someone suspected of domestic abuse, or a friend or relative can ask police for information.

Officers will also be able to inform the person they want to protect, even if they have not asked for details.

Detective Superintendent Heather Pearson, who heads North Yorkshire Police’s Protecting Vulnerable Person’s Units, said: “The scheme ensures that those who have concerns around their safety, or the safety of a friend or relative, in respect of a new or existing relationship, can proactively do something about it under the ‘right to ask’ part of the scheme.”

She said every request will be researched. A specially trained officer may then meet with the person requesting the information and other agencies contacted to help those involved.

Det Supt Pearson said: “This is one of a number of measures which can help protect existing victims of domestic abuse and prevent future victims by allowing them to take back control.

“It often takes a great deal of courage for someone to accept that a relationship is an abusive one and North Yorkshire Police work with a range of partner agencies to provide help and support for victims and their families as well as working with the perpetrators of the abuse.”

The scheme will be rolled out across North Yorkshire from March 8.

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg has said the County Durham force has also thrown its weight behind Clare’s Law.

It was brought in following a campaign after Salford mother Clare Wood was murdered by her estranged partner George Appleton, who – unknown to her - had a history of violence against women.