Worcester victim urges people to use Clare's Law to reveal domestic abusers

The 23-year-old from Worcester, who was attacked by her then-boyfriend Matthew Wickens in July, wants to raise awareness of 'Clare's Law'.

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme – named after 36-year-old Clare Wood who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2009 – is intended to provide information that could prevent someone from being a victim of an attack.

The scheme allows the police to disclose information on request about a partner's previous history of domestic violence or violent acts.

Although the Worcester woman's ex-boyfriend had no previous convictions for domestic abuse, she believe it is a vital way of protecting potential victims from partners who have a history of violence.

"I just want to make sure people know about Clare's Law and that, if they are suspicious about their partner, they can ask police to tell them anything relevant," she said.

West Mercia Women's Aid also encourages people to use Clare's Law if they are concerned about their partner, or the partner of a loved one.

Joanna Midgley, the Worcestershire county manager for West Mercia Women’s Aid, said: "If anyone is worried or suspicious about their partner, we encourage them to call our helpline on 0800 980 3331.

"We have helped women to access Clare's Law and we encourage people not to suffer in silence."

For details of how to make a request to West Mercia Police under Clare's Law, seewestmercia.police.uk/clareslaw.

• Matthew Wickens, 23, accepted a charge of assault by beating at Cardiff Magistrates Court on August 12, in relation to a domestic violence incident, a CPS spokesman said. He was given a 12-month community order which includes 70 hours of unpaid work and he must pay £375 compensation to the victim.