Many people in the UK, especially women, are being subjected to the terrifying reality of dealing with individuals who exhibit stalking and coercive controlling behaviour. 

Despite the clear danger this poses to safety, these individuals are excluded from the protections provided by Clare's Law where a relationship has not yet formed. 

Clare's Law, formally known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, is intended to protect individuals from the threat of domestic abuse by allowing them to request information about their partner's past offending history.

However, as it stands, this crucial safeguard is only available to those who are in a current relational partnership. This leaves a significant gap, excluding those who encounter abuse from stalkers, coercive control, or narcissistic behavior from someone who has not yet become a partner.

The statistics are stark: According to Women’s Aid, up to one in four women in the UK experience domestic abuse at some point in their life, and coercive control now accounts for one in five crimes in UK relationships. Yet, we are neglecting those who are at the cusp of relationships, where early-warning signs could prevent them from ever becoming one of these statistics.

We must amend Clare's Law to be inclusive, allowing everyone to request information even before a relationship status is formally established. By doing this, we can proactively protect more people from becoming victims of domestic abuse and coercive control. 

Imagine preventing a potential tragedy by having the opportunity to uncover a history of abuse and manipulation before it’s too late. We can save lives and spare individuals from the emotional and psychological trauma that accompanies domestic abuse by broadening the scope of Clare's Law.

Let's rally together and urge the UK government to revise the criteria within Clare's Law to accommodate all those vulnerable to such abuse, regardless of their relationship status. We owe it to the many silent sufferers who are just one step away from falling prey to domestic abuse.

Sign this petition to demand a change that ensures safety for everyone, before it becomes a dire necessity.