Wiltshire Police apologises for more domestic abuse failures

Chief Constable Catherine Roper said she "would like to wholeheartedly apologise" to those let down by her team

A police force has apologised for the second time after uncovering more cases where it has failed to protect potential victims of domestic abuse.

In October, Wiltshire Police launched an urgent review into the way it had handled more than 3,500 disclosure requests under Clare's Law since 2015.

The force has now uncovered more failures and three more cases have been referred to the police watchdog.

Chief Constable Catherine Roper said her staff had "badly" let people down.

She added: "Last month, I made a commitment to our communities that we would continue to be transparent as we work through our review.

"Once again, I would like to wholeheartedly apologise to all those we have let down."

Under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme - known as Clare's Law - people can apply to the police for information about someone who may pose a risk to their partner.

Earlier this year it emerged that one member of staff at Wiltshire Police had failed to share information which could have protected someone at risk of domestic abuse.

The force voluntarily referred itself to the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, and began a review of 3,582 disclosure applications.

Since then, a number of additional concerns have been identified.

Officers are now meeting with those at risk of harm to offer advice and support.

The force has moved 36 members of staff to work solely on the review team

Chief Constable Roper added: "My officers and staff continue to prioritise those most at risk from harm and will be arranging urgent face-to-face meetings to disclose important information and offer safeguarding advice.

"Finally, I would like to repeat my plea to our communities - I know we have badly let you down, but I am asking for your trust and urge you to come forward if you have any concerns or information regarding people at risk of domestic abuse."

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