MARAC
Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference
Purpose
MARAC is chaired by West Yorkshire Police Safeguarding Unit and is facilitated by the Wellbeing and Integration Service, Kirklees Council. Its aim is to provide a structured forum for the sharing of information, risk assessment and safety planning in relation to victims, offenders and offenders' children, in cases of domestic violence.
MARAC meetings
MARAC meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month. Any agency that has concerns regarding a client can make a referral by emailing a completed MARAC referral form and DASH risk assessment to the secure MARAC email address - MARAC@kirklees.gcsx.gov.uk. The form is to be completed giving details of the abused and abuser and any children involved.
Referrals must be received two weeks prior to the MARAC meeting. The agenda is sent out on the last Thursday of the month to give all agencies who attend the meeting time to collate wider information to present to the MARAC meeting.
Referral agencies include council services, police, probation, health and third sector, and MARAC meetings comprise representatives from these agencies.
The MARAC meeting considers the complete picture of the family at risk, including the current situation and a full historical profile of the abuse. Information such as the number of police call-outs, civil or criminal law involvement, housing, and impact on children is shared and reviewed. The client does not attend MARAC and, although desirable, there is no need for client consent for a referral.
After consideration of all reports an action plan aimed at alleviating the impact of the abuse is produced. This plan could involve the use of a lead agency to work with the client to give support and advice or to act as an advocate for the family, it could provide access to other services, for example the legal system or housing, or it could offer support via the IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advocate) if there is to be a subsequent trial.
Low to medium risk cases
MARAC can only deal with high risk cases as it does not have the capacity to assist low to medium risk incidents. These, however, are supported through the Kirlees Domestic Violence Team and through other agencies.
Further information
To discuss a case contact the West Yorkshire Safeguarding Unit on 01924 335073 or send referrals to MARAC@kirklees.gcsx.gov.uk.
Referrals to MARAC
To refer a case to MARAC please complete the referral form.
Procedural flowchart
Click here for procedural flowchart
