DOMESTIC abuse experts in Bolton have welcomed figures showing that more than 1,300 violent partners have been revealed under Clare's Law.

Staff at the Fortalice refuge are delighted that the law is helping women find out about a partner's violent past.

But they also point to the importance of spotting early warning signs in relationships that all women and girls should be aware of to help keep themselves safe.

Gill Smallwood, Director of Services at Fortalice, which helps women and children escape domestic violence, said: "At Fortalice, we always make sure service users are aware of Clare's Law. We welcome anything that makes a difference to people suffering domestic abuse, provided it is within a tight framework which Clare's Law is.

"We find this law very effective. It's also helpful that everyone understands Clare's Law properly and how it works because each application needs to be judged on its merits."

Clare's Law was named after Clare Wood who was murdered in 2009 in Salford by her ex-boyfriend George Appleton. She met him on an internet dating site and their relationship developed on Facebook but she was unaware of his violent history of abuse.

The law brought in almost a year ago gives members of the public a formal mechanism to make inquiries about any individual with whom they are in a relationship if there is concern that abuse is taking place. It allows the police to disclose information about a partner's previous history of domestic violence or violent acts.

Fortalice also provides a free, flexible 12-week Freedom programme, open to any female, which includes understanding early warning indicators of abusive relationships.

A spokeswoman for the support centre stated: "These signs include him wanting too much too soon. Isolating the woman from her family and friends can be an indicator, always insisting on dropping her off and picking her up when she goes to work or goes out and always wanting to know where she is.

"It's very difficult because, especially if a woman has been in a physically abusive relationship previously, she'll say to us 'but he's never violent towards me.'

"However, we know from helping many women and girls that emotional abuse can be worse than physical abuse as its effects are very long-lasting and can make women isolated and lose their confidence.

"They often spot these on the programme and say 'yes, he did that'."

She advised any female who "felt uncomfortable" about her partner's treatment to trust her instincts, and seek help and support.

The Fortalice support centre is available on 01204 365677.