I am a survivor of domestic abuse, and the past year has been the hardest of my life. I have personally experienced the trauma and pain that comes from not having vital information about a potential partner's history. As I reflect on my experience, I realise how many others may be in dangerous situations without the means to protect themselves. Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue, affecting individuals from all walks of life, and yet remains shrouded in silence and fear.

Although Claire’s Law provides a legal mechanism for individuals to find out if their partner has a history of domestic abuse, it often requires a level of safety and foresight that many victims do not have. Like many others, I was not in a position to safely access this information. This gap leaves countless people vulnerable to abuse, suffering trauma that might have been prevented if there was a more accessible means of obtaining crucial information.

This is why I am petitioning for the creation of an open, public register for domestic abuse offenders. Such a register would serve as a preventive tool, enabling people to make informed decisions about their relationships and protecting them from potential harm. By having access to this information, we can empower both women and men to safeguard themselves and take proactive steps towards their safety before it is too late.

Statistics show that domestic abuse affects millions globally, with vast emotional, physical, and social repercussions. In England and Wales alone, an estimated 2.3 million adults aged 16 to 74 experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2020. These are not just numbers—they are lives impacted, families torn apart, and communities shaken. We need to act decisively to mitigate these tragedies.

Implementing a public register of domestic abuse offenders will need careful consideration of privacy and rehabilitation concerns, but it is a necessary step to save lives and prevent future abuse. The goal here is not to stigmatise those who have committed offenses but to ensure transparency that can lead to safer, informed choices for everyone in our society.

Join me in demanding action. Let us push for a society where safety, transparency, and prevention are priorities. Sign this petition to call on lawmakers to establish a public register for domestic abuse offenders. Your support could help prevent others from experiencing the same suffering and pave the way for a more secure future for all. Together, we can make a difference.