Beginning a new relationship should be exciting, but it is also important to protect yourself.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. You have every right to ask questions, take things slowly, and make informed decisions about your safety.

Many people don’t realise that in some countries there are official schemes that allow you to ask the police whether a current or former partner has a known history of domestic abuse or violent behaviour.

United Kingdom – Clare’s Law

In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, you can apply under Clare’s Law, also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.

There are two ways information may be disclosed:

• Right to Ask – You, or someone concerned about you, can ask the police whether your partner has a history of domestic abuse or violence.
• Right to Know – The police can proactively disclose information if they believe someone may be at risk.

If the police believe there is information that could help keep you safe, they may disclose relevant details to help you make informed decisions about your relationship.

Spain – VioGén

Spain does not operate a Clare’s Law disclosure scheme.

Instead, it has one of Europe’s most advanced victim protection systems, known as VioGén.

VioGén focuses on protecting victims after abuse has been reported through coordinated risk assessment, police monitoring, court involvement, and multi-agency support.

It is designed to identify risk, monitor offenders, and provide ongoing protection where necessary, rather than disclosing a person’s previous history before a relationship begins.

Other Countries

Some parts of Australia have domestic violence disclosure schemes similar to Clare’s Law, while other countries, including Canada and New Zealand, have introduced or are developing regional disclosure programmes.

Many European countries rely instead on police risk assessments, restraining orders, specialist domestic violence courts, and safeguarding systems rather than public disclosure.

There Are Other Ways to Protect Yourself

Even if your country does not have a formal disclosure scheme, there are practical steps you can take:

• Don’t ignore red flags.
• Take your time getting to know someone.
• Be cautious if they try to isolate you from family or friends.
• Watch how they react when you say “no.”
• Notice whether they respect your boundaries.
• Listen to trusted friends or relatives if they express concerns.
• If something feels wrong, don’t dismiss your intuition.

Abusive behaviour often follows recognisable patterns long before physical violence occurs.

Remember…

A criminal record is only one piece of the picture.

Many perpetrators of domestic abuse have never been convicted, while others may have a history that is not legally disclosable.

The most important protection is a combination of awareness, education, healthy boundaries, and trusting your instincts.

If you ever feel frightened, controlled, manipulated, or unsafe in a relationship, seek advice early. You do not have to wait until abuse becomes physical before asking for help.

Knowledge is empowering.

The more we understand the warning signs of coercive control and domestic abuse, the better equipped we are to protect ourselves and those we love.