Information for a victim referred to Marac

This resource provides information on how to inform victims of domestic abuse who are referred to Marac.

The victim’s safety should be at the centre of the Marac and keeping a clear focus on safety is easier when the victim is engaged in the process and their views are represented at the meeting.

Normally the Idva or Idaa is best placed to represent the victim by both contacting the victim before and updating the victim after the meeting (where it is safe to do so), in addition to liaising with partner agencies. The referring agency should usually inform the victim of Marac referral where it is safe to do so. This may be done by letter if there has been an incident of public record (e.g. reported to the police). If the perpetrator is unaware that the victim has sought help in relation to domestic abuse then it may be safer to discuss the referral by phone or in person (e.g. disclosures to a midwife).

To supplement these contacts, local areas often produce information for victims referred to the Marac. In some cases a ‘Leaflet Informing the Victim of the Marac’ is provided to the victim on referral where it is safe to do so.

A leaflet informing victims of the Marac might contain a definition of a Marac, information about confidentiality at the Marac, information about what happens after the Marac, and useful contact details for local services.

This resource also provides a letter template that can be completed on behalf of the Marac chair to inform the victim of the Marac.