Evaluating Risk and Responsibility in the UK Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme

• In Event: Policies and Practices to Reduce and Prevent Teen Dating, Domestic and Sexual Violence

Abstract

The UK 'Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme' (also known colloquially as 'Clare's Law') is designed to reduce domestic violence by allowing a person to request information about their partner's potentially violent past. This paper presents research findings into the Scheme that indicate anomalies in its scope, implementation and uptake. The analysis also critiques its perceived 'success' given the absence of any evaluation to support such claims. The discussion of these issues invokes feminist theory, particularly around domestic violence research, to illustrate how risk and responsibility are conceptualized in the operation of this policy.

Author

• Marian Duggan, University of Kent