Clwyd East MP, Becky Gittins, has welcomed the expansion of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders.

From this week, victims in North Wales – as well as their friends, families or support workers – can apply for Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPO) in the family court at Caernarfon, Prestatyn or Wrexham. Police can also apply on their behalf in the magistrates’ court for protection against abusers.

Domestic Abuse Protection Orders build on existing police powers, providing stronger protection for victims including forcing perpetrators to stick to strict exclusion zones wearing GPS tags and attending substance misuse or mental health interventions.

Unlike current schemes, these orders cover all types of domestic abuse – including physical, controlling, or coercive behaviour, economic abuse and stalking – and can be issued by all courts. There will also be no maximum duration for these orders, compared to the 28-days current protection orders offer.

Clwyd East MP, Becky Gittins, said:

“Having pushed for this pilot to be extended to North Wales, I am delighted that the Government has taken this step and made these protection orders available to victims across the region.

“It is imperative that victims know how to access these orders. If you’re experiencing abuse, contact your local family court, police, or your support worker today to help access a DAPO.

“These are practical measures which can make a real difference and are part of this Government’s commitment to make our communities safer, support victims, and halve violence against women and girls within a decade.”