A MARAC (multi-agency risk assessment conference) is a meeting where information is shared on the highest risk domestic abuse cases. There are 270 MARACs operating across the UK. They are attended by representatives from police, education, health, child protection, housing, independent domestic violence advisors (Idvas), probation and other specialists from the statutory or voluntary sectors. They:

• share all relevant information they have about a victim
• discuss options for increasing the victim’s safety
• create a co-ordinated action plan.

The primary focus of the MARAC is to safeguard the adult victim. The MARAC will also make links with others to safeguard children and manage the perpetrator’s behaviour.

At the heart of the MARAC, is the working assumption that no single agency or individual can see the complete picture of a victim’s life but they all may have insights that are crucial to the victim’s safety.

The victim doesn’t attend the meeting but they are represented by an Idva who speaks on their behalf.