What is domestic abuse?

The Government definition of domestic violence and abuse is:

'Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can encompass, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:

• psychological
• physical
• sexual
• financial
• emotional

'Controlling behaviour is: a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour. Coercive behaviour is: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.'

The Government definition, which is not a legal definition, includes so called 'honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group. 

Tamworth Borough Council are committed to tackling domestic abuse by increasing awareness, promoting good practice and improving support for victim survivors and their families.

Helpline numbers:-

New Era provides free and confidential round-the-clock advice and support for anyone in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent affected by domestic abuse - regardless of their age, ethnicity, gender or location. The 24-hour confidential helpline for victims is: 0300 303 3778 and there’s a live chat facility via the New Era website. The confidential helpline for perpetrators is: 01785 601690.

The Pathway Project offers help, advice and practical support to people who are experiencing or who have experienced domestic abuse. The Pathway Project, which is a registered charity, has a 24-hour helpline which can be contacted on 01543 676800. More help and information is also available through the Pathway Project website.

 

Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme - your right to ask

If you live in Staffordshire, you can find out if your partner has a violent past thanks to the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.

About 'Clare’s Law'

Clare’s Law – is an initiative, which enables people to check their partner’s history of domestic violence. It is hoped that knowing this information will allow a person to consider whether or not they are at risk from their partner.

It has the following benefits:

• ‘right to ask’, under which people can seek information disclosure from the police about their partner’s previous domestic violence convictions.
• ‘right to know’, under which the safeguarding agency makes a decision whether a disclosure should be made to protect a potential victim in and ensure their safety.

The scheme – also referred to as ‘Clare’s Law’ – aims to prevent men and women from becoming victims of domestic abuse.

People worried that their partner may be harbouring a violent past are being urged to use a successful scheme.

Who can request this information?

Anyone who has contact with a potential victim of domestic abuse can request information however; they may not be the one to receive any information released.

It will only be given to those who are best placed to safeguard the person at risk.

Campaigners lobbied the government to implement the scheme following the murder of 36-year-old Salford mum Clare Wood by her estranged partner in 2009.

She suffered months of sexual abuse and death threats before being strangled by George Appleton, who had a history of violence against women.

How to make a request under 'Clare’s Law'

To make a request for information under the Disclosure Scheme, contact us on 101 or speak to a police officer.