Going to police

[Crest of a wave]

What are people’s experiences of going to the police to report abuser?
Not sure what to do?

[maddog]

They should have a specific domestic abuse team. You can call 101 and either arrange to meet an officer or they can come to your home depending on what is safer for you. If you want to go ahead and make a statement they will probably do it in the form of a video recorded interview at a specially designed place full of comfy chairs. You may be assigned an IDVA or ISVA who will help you get the right support in place. Often the police hold the keys to much of the available help. If you are not already with Women’s Aid, they can help you there too.

I found it a massive relief, finally being believed.

[Twisted Sister]

Dear Crest of a wave

It is hoped that you too would received Maddogs experience. It’s also possible you will be sent a male officer without specialist training and not treated considerately.

Phone, ask, and make sure you are seen and managed properly the same a Maddog

Warmest wishes ts

[KIP.]

Make sure you speak to specially trained domestic abuse officers. You can ask for a female if you want to. I don’t regret it one bit. I was totally taken seriously and was given lots of help. The more women who report these men, the better chance of arrest. I hope my statement may back up another woman’s. You can also ask using Claire’s Law if he has any previous convictions or reports against him. Victim support, women’s aid etc can provide great emotional support.

[Iwantmeback]

Hi KIP,(or Lisa)on using Claire’s Law, would the police be obliged to talk to my husband if anything disclosed they deemed a crime or would that only happen if i reported his actions as a crime. I feel i need to look into his previous life and if his ex reported him or to see if theres anything on file regarding his behaviour before me.

[Lisa]

Hi Iwantmeback,

That is a valid question and the answer is somewhat dependent on individual circumstances. It is my understanding that the police have to take into account the risk posed to the applicant should the perpetrator find out about the application for a disclosure, and not inform him if doing so would increase the applicant’s risk. It is of course down to you how much you choose to inform the police of the abuse that has happened to you. If you reported a crime that they felt puts you, or others, at immediate risk of harm, then they may deem it necessary to act/ talk to him.

You can read about this in more detail in the following Home Office document; Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) Guidance. In particular look at pages 18-19.

You can also contact your local police on 101 and ask hypothetically what would happen if you wanted to use the DVDS/Clare’s Law; you do not need to give your name when you call.

I hope this helps a little,

Kind Regards,

Lisa

[Iwantmeback]

Hi Lisa, just saw your reply ,thank you and yes its helped a lot.xx

[Author]

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