In a powerful step forward for victim safety and perpetrator accountability, Cleveland Police has secured more than 120 Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) since March 2025, when a national pilot by the Home Office and Ministry of Justice was launched. This milestone highlights the force’s commitment to addressing domestic abuse with stronger, more proactive measures designed to protect victims and disrupt patterns of harm.
The figures are striking: in just over three months, 124 DAPO applications made by Cleveland Police have been granted by the courts. These new orders offer wide-ranging protections and go further than some previous measures—most notably because they carry no set time restrictions and make breaches a criminal offence. This means that if a perpetrator ignores the terms of the DAPO, they can be arrested and face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
What sets DAPOs apart is the responsibility placed on police forces to actively monitor compliance, placing victim safety at the centre of the process. This level of enforcement is crucial in building long-term trust in the system. Chief Superintendent Caroline McGlade reflected this when she said, “I’m really pleased with how the pilot is going so far and I know these orders are already making a significant difference to those facing domestic abuse in our communities.”
Since the launch, five individuals who breached their DAPOs have already received custodial sentences, with additional cases still awaiting court outcomes. These results speak volumes— not just about the seriousness with which breaches are treated, but also about the swift action being taken to enforce the law and deter repeat offending.
The DAPO pilot also reinforces a vital message: victims are not alone, and there is support available. The Cleveland Police website hosts a range of resources and contact information for individuals affected by domestic abuse. As Chief Superintendent McGlade encouraged, “Whenever you feel able to report something to us, we’re here for you and we can help you.”
For anyone experiencing domestic abuse or worried about someone else, help is available. Please contact Cygnet Law as we will be able to advise your accordingly of your options available if you or someone you know if suffering from domestic abuse.
This pilot scheme could mark the beginning of lasting change across the UK—where protection is meaningful, enforcement is firm, and the voices of victims are finally heard and prioritised.
