New Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) are being developed to provide stronger and more flexible protection for victims of domestic abuse.
The measures, introduced under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, began operating on a pilot basis in November 2024. The pilot has since expanded to areas including Greater Manchester, parts of London, Cleveland and North Wales.
A DAPN can provide immediate protection following an incident of domestic abuse, while a DAPO can give longer-term protection. Orders can include restrictions on where a perpetrator can go or who they can contact, electronic monitoring and requirements to attend behaviour-change programmes. Breaching a DAPO is a criminal offence.
The Government’s intention is for DAPNs and DAPOs eventually to replace the existing Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders (DVPNs/DVPOs), creating a single, more comprehensive protective framework.
However, national rollout across England and Wales has not yet taken place. The Government’s May 2026 post-legislative scrutiny confirmed that the provisions remain subject to the pilot programme, with full national commencement still outstanding.
The rollout will be closely watched by police, courts, domestic abuse services and survivors as the Government assesses how effectively the new powers can improve protection and manage perpetrators.
If you need legal advice on a family matter, please contact a member of our family team who will be happy to assist on 01926 422 101, sv@fieldoverell.com or kg@fieldoverell.com
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