Last week I met with a serving police officer who wanted to speak to me about bringing about a change in legislation that could save innocent young children’s lives, which I will tell you more about in the coming weeks.
During our conversation she also told me how passionate she was promoting the take up of Claire’s Law and Sarah’s Law to help end put an end to violence against women and girls.
A number of life-saving disclosure schemes currently exist to protect lives and save people from harm — but sadly, far too few people know they are available or understand how to use them!
Clare’s Law and Sarah’s Law share one clear purpose: to prevent violence before it happens by providing individuals with vital information that can save lives and reduce violence against women and girls.
Clare’s and Sarah’s Law are powerful tools in the fight to end violence against women and girls.
But they only work if people know they exist — and feel confident using them.
Clare’s Law – Right to Know, Right to Ask
Clare’s Law, is also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), allows anyone to ask the police if their partner — or someone else’s partner — has a history of violence or abuse.
Named after Clare Wood was murdered in 2009 by an ex-partner with a known violent past, the scheme was introduced to help people spot red flags early.
There are two routes: the Right to Ask, which allows anyone to apply for information, and the Right to Know, which enables the police to proactively warn someone if they are at risk.
This information can be a lifeline, allowing people to make safer, more informed choices about relationships.
Sarah’s Law – Protecting Children from Known Offenders
Sarah’s Law, also known as the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme, was established after the tragic murder of eight-year-old Sarah Payne.
It allows parents, carers, or guardians to ask if someone with access to a child has a history of sexual offences.
If there is a risk, the police can disclose that information to protect the child.
These laws are not about punishment — they are about prevention. Both Clare’s and Sarah’s Laws provide controlled, confidential ways to help people protect themselves and those they love.
If you are concerned about a partner’s past, or the safety of a child, or you believe someone is being failed by the system, do not stay silent.
Call 101, or 999 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.
Apply online at www.durham.police.uk.
Go to your local police station.
Use QR codes above to access online help.
If you do not want to speak to the police, there are other people who can help:
· Call The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0330 223 0099 or visit www.sarcdurham.co.uk
· The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 24/7 (Free and confidential)
· Local Domestic abuse service, Harbour, is also available 24 hours a day on 03000 20 25 25.
· Childline: 0800 1111 (for children and young people)
· NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (for adults concerned about a child)
Joy Allen
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
