Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC)
(For a professionals guide to MARAC, please see downloads available from this page)
Information for people at risk of domestic abuse.......
What is a Domestic Abuse MARAC?
MARAC stands for Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference. It is a meeting where agencies talk about the risk of serious harm to people experiencing domestic abuse in their area, and make safety plans to support those most at risk. The aim is to increase the safety and well-being of the adults & their children involved, and to reduce the risk of them becoming repeat victims.
When do MARAC's meet?
The domestic abuse MARAC meets once a month to consider the needs of new people who have been referred, and to review the needs of those whose situations have changed.
How will the MARAC help me?
If your case has been put forward for discussion at a MARAC, it is because it is believed that you could be at risk of serious harm from domestic abuse.
At the MARAC, different agencies come together to pool their knowledge and make a plan to help keep you and your family safe.
Who attends a MARAC?
A number of different agencies attend a domestic abuse MARAC. If you are involved with any agencies and think they should be invited, please let your IDVA know.
Confidentiality:
The MARAC will respect your right to privacy and confidentiality. Any information resulting from the meeting will be kept secure and not shared with anyone who is not involved in your case. everybody at the MARAC has to sign a confidentiality agreement before the meeting begins.
Do i need to go to the domestic abuse MARAC?
No, its is just the workers from the different agencies who attend. But if you want to let the MARAC meeting know anything about anything affecting your safety, or things you will need help with, let your IDVA know. They will represent you at the meeting.
What happens after a MARAC?
Afetr a MARAC, your IDVA will contact you about the meeting. They will let you know abou the help & support that agencies are offering.
Examples of actions from the MARAC may be:
- Arranging for a police officer to check on your welfare.
- providing extra security measures in your home.
- Ensuring that schools do not allow your children to leave with anyone else but you.
- Asking a health visitor or midwife to check on your well-being.
The IDVAs will usually get in touch with you and offer support and advice. They also know about other domestic abuse support services.
IN AN EMERGENCY DIAL 999
To contact Bedfordshire MARAC
(excluding Luton borough boundaries)
National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247
Bedfordshire Police Domestic Abuse Unit 01234 846919
(9am - 5pm- weekdays)
