Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs)

In a MARAC, local agencies meet to discuss high risk victims of domestic abuse in their area. Information is shared about the risks those victims face. The agencies agree and formulate a safety plan to best meet those victims' needs. Actions are then volunteered by the relevant agencies to make sure the victim's safety plan is effectively carried out.

This helps to ensure high risk victims are supported and better protected from further abuse.

Actions from the MARAC tend to cover the following:

• supporting the victim through crisis

• discussing options

• supporting through criminal/civil process

• assisting with housing options

• risk assessment

• safety planning with the victim

• information on other services

The outcome of the MARAC should be fed back to the victim. The referring agency attends the MARACs as the voice of the victim. The views of the victim should always take priority where possible. If a further incident occurs where it is classed as a crime (this includes stalking and harassment), then the case should be referred back in order that the level of risk can be reassessed.

Further information on the disclosure of information at MARAC is available at www.caada.org.uk (opens in a new window). Documents in other languages are available at http://www.caada.org.uk/Practitioner_resources/risktranslated.htm (opens in a new window)

The risk assessment form contains guidance on which cases become a MARAC and is available below, along with a referral form.

For more information about MARAC, contact the MARAC Supervisor at Police Headquarters on 01773 573609 or email zenna.kessels.3707@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk

For more information about this and other services to vulnerable adults, please request membership to the Safer Derbyshire website. You can do this if you work with vulnerable people, such as in Mental Health, in the NHS or are an independent care provider.