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The police and court orders in the UK

You can report abuse to the police, and a court can order the person who hurts you to stay away. You can also ask the police whether a partner has a record of abuse.

This is general information, not legal advice. Each service was checked against its own website on 7 November 2026. Rules change: read what the service itself says before you decide.

Who can help

  • Reporting domestic abuse to the police

    Domestic abuse is a crime. The police can help protect you, and you can report in an emergency or not.

    Who it is for Anyone in the UK experiencing domestic abuse, of any gender.

    First step In danger now, call the emergency number. If it is not an emergency, contact your local neighbourhood policing team.

    Good to know If you cannot speak on an emergency call, see the emergency entry for the silent-call option.

    gov.uk

  • Non-molestation and occupation orders (England and Wales)

    Court orders that stop an abuser harming or threatening you or your child, or decide who can live in the home.

    Who it is for In England and Wales: anyone who has been a victim of domestic abuse. There is no court fee.

    First step Prepare an application online with RCJ Citizens Advice's free CourtNav service, or by email, post or in person. Ask for an emergency order if needed.

    Good to know Fill in form C8 if you want to keep your address and phone number private from the abuser.

    gov.uk

  • Clare's Law - Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (England and Wales)

    Ask the police whether a partner or ex-partner has a history of abuse. You can also ask on behalf of someone you are worried about.

    Who it is for In England and Wales: anyone worried that a new, current or former partner may be abusive, or worried about a friend or relative.

    First step Ask your local police in person, by phone, by email or online. Support services can help you ask.

    Good to know If the police share nothing, it does not mean your worries are wrong. If you feel at risk, get help anyway.

    gov.uk

  • Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland (DSDAS)

    Ask Police Scotland whether someone has an abusive past, to help keep you or someone else safe.

    Who it is for In Scotland: anyone who is, or knows someone who is, at risk of domestic abuse. If you ask for someone else, police tell the person at risk.

    First step Fill in Police Scotland's online DSDAS form, visit a police station, or phone the police non-emergency line.

    Good to know The Police Scotland page has an 'Exit this site' button.

    scotland.police.uk

  • Domestic Violence and Abuse Disclosure Scheme (Northern Ireland)

    Ask the PSNI whether your partner, ex-partner or someone else's partner has been abusive in the past.

    Who it is for In Northern Ireland: anyone aged 16 or over who is worried about a partner, ex-partner, or the partner of someone they know.

    First step Fill in the DVADS application form. Police can help you complete it by phone or at a police station.

    Good to know Police contact you using the safe method you give on the form. You will need photo ID.

    nidirect.gov.uk

  • Victim Support (England and Wales)

    Independent charity offering free, confidential support after any crime, including domestic abuse, 24 hours a day.

    Who it is for Anyone affected by crime in England or Wales, whether or not it was reported to the police and however long ago it happened.

    First step Call the free 24/7 Supportline, start a live chat, or use My Support Space online.

    victimsupport.org.uk

Numbers

  • Emergency

    Call 999

    If you cannot speak, call 999 from a mobile and press 55 (Silent Solution).

    24/7

    gov.uk

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