Police issue Greater Manchester’s first Domestic Abuse Protection Order in pilot scheme

Rochdale residents are set to benefit from a groundbreaking initiative aimed at protecting domestic abuse survivors, as Greater Manchester Police (GMP) secures its first Domestic Abuse Protection Order (DAPO).

The order, issued this week (5 December 2024) at Manchester Magistrates’ Court, is part of a Home Office pilot being trialled in Bury. GMP is one of three police forces across the UK chosen for the scheme, which will roll out across Greater Manchester next year.

The DAPO prohibits a man, who subjected his victim to coercive control and physical abuse, from contacting her in any form, directly, indirectly, digitally, or through others. These conditions, set for six months, make any breach an arrestable criminal offence.

This pilot marks a significant step forward in tackling domestic abuse, offering stronger and longer-lasting protections for survivors. The initiative is set to expand beyond Bury to include Rochdale, Heywood, and other areas of Greater Manchester in 2025.

Unlike existing Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPNs), DAPOs can be granted for any duration and may impose “positive requirements” on perpetrators.

These could include electronic monitoring or participation in behaviour change programmes. Police, victims, or approved individuals in the victim’s support network can apply for a DAPO, widening accessibility for those in need.

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Faulkner, leading GMP’s pilot, emphasised the importance of this development. He said: “We are really pleased to be one of the few forces taking part in the pilot of DAPOs.

"This will give us the opportunity to work alongside our national partners, such as the Home Office, on shaping policing of the future where it comes to the protection of vulnerable people.

“We have significantly improved our response to domestic abuse. We’re responding to incidents more quickly, arresting more suspects, supporting survivors and ensuring our officers are equipped with all available and innovative tools to protect victims.

“The introduction of DAPOs means we have another tool to continue that positive journey and ensure victims are safeguarded from harm.

It also forms part of our wider commitment to tackling violence against women and girls under the GM Gender-Based Violence Strategy.”

Over the past year, GMP issued more than 1,900 DVPNs. The new DAPOs aim to build on this success, with a greater focus on safeguarding victims and punishing offenders.

GMP’s proactive approach to monitoring DVPNs has been nationally recognised. The force was commended for its robust measures in ensuring the safety of victims and compliance by offenders. Read more about their work here: Promising practice in tackling domestic abuse offenders recognised with national award.

For those in Rochdale borough and across Greater Manchester, GMP encourages anyone affected by domestic abuse to come forward. Reports can be made by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or through the GMP website at www.gmp.police.uk using the 'report' tool.