What is a MARAC?
A MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) is a meeting that is held on a fortnightly basis where agencies come together to share information to help increase the safety, health and wellbeing of high risk victims of domestic abuse and their families.
At the meeting, agencies will discuss the risks that a perpetrator may pose to a particular individual or the wider community. A risk management plan is then developed to help provide professional support to those at risk of harm from the perpetrator. The plan is designed to reduce the risk of harm, reduce repeat victimisation and increase support for the people involved.
In Blackpool, the MARACs are attended by the following agencies:
- Lancashire Constabulary
- Housing Options
- Social Services Direct
- Targeted Services
- The hub
- Children’s Centres
- Pupil Welfare
- BSafe Blackpool
- NHS Blackpool
- Blackpool, Fylde & Wyre NHS Hospitals Foundation Trust
- Victim Support
- NSPCC
- Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Service
- Lancashire Probation
- Blackpool Coastal Housing
- Addiction Dependency Solutions
- Drugline
- Fylde Coast Women’s Aid
- Lancashire Care Foundation Trust
- Community Mental Health Team
- CAFCASS
All of the agencies involved sign up to an information sharing protocol and a confidentiality agreement, which means that any information discussed at a meeting is strictly confidential between the agencies involved.
MARACS are a multi agency initiative and are Chaired by the Police Public Protection Unit. All of the above agencies can refer cases to MARAC following a formal risk assessment. All referrals are based on the seriousness and extent of the abuse on the victim and their family.
In an emergency always dial 999