Nottingham Charity raises awareness around domestic violence disclosure with ‘Right to Ask’ scheme

Equation, a Nottingham-based charity working to prevent domestic abuse, has launched a new campaign to raise awareness for the ‘Right to Ask’ domestic violence disclosure scheme.

This scheme aims to empower individuals to check if their partner or ex has a history of violence or abuse. By showing if someone may be at risk of abuse, it allows them to make informed decisions about their relationship and prioritise their safety. Particularly, if they, or someone close to them such as friends, family members or professionals, thinks they might be at risk.

As part of the government’s Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), ‘Right to Ask’ recognises that the majority of domestic abuse occurs from repeat offenders. It champions the right of all people to know if they’re in a relationship with someone who has a history of abuse with the aim of preventing cases of domestic abuse.

“If something feels off in your relationship, be safe, not sorry. Use your ‘Right to Ask’ to keep yourself or someone else safe.”

Launched around Valentine’s Day when there’s a greater focus on romantic relationships, Equation’s campaign works with Nottingham Police to promote and encourage people to use the government scheme. 

Anyone wanting to use the scheme can make an initial enquiry with support from Equation’s Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme specialist or directly with the police. Once your enquiry is made, the police will check if that person has a record of domestic abuse. They also look for any other information that suggests there might be a risk of abusive behaviour. If they find any concerning information, they share it with you if you are the person at risk. In some situations, they may share the information with someone who can protect them.

Ways to apply:

• Call Equation on 0800 995 6999 or email helpline@equation.org.uk (Equation support men)
• Call the Juno 24-hour domestic violence helpline on 0808 800 0340 (Juno support women)
• Visit www.equation.org.uk/right2ask to apply online and find out more about the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme
• Call the police on 101 to make an enquiry over the phone, or text 19001 101.

Equation runs education programmes in schools, training for professionals and behaviour change programmes. They also raise awareness of where to get help and support and run a helpline and services for men living in Nottingham and experiencing abuse. 

To find out more about Equation, visit www.equation.org.uk. More information about Equation’s help for men experiencing abuse can be found by visiting www.equation.org.uk/help-for-men or calling 0800 995 6999.