MARAC, MATAC and MAPPA

A multi-agency risk assessment conference (MARAC) is a regular meeting where professionals from different sectors come together to share information about high-risk domestic abuse cases. The goal is to create a coordinated safety plan that protects the victim, manages the perpetrator’s behaviour, and reduces the risk of further harm.

MARACs are attended by representatives from the police, health services, housing, probation, children’s services, and specialist domestic abuse organisations. An Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) usually represents the victim, ensuring their voice and needs are central to the discussion. The victim does not attend the meeting in person.

Each agency contributes relevant information they hold about the case - such as previous incidents, safeguarding concerns, or support needs - and together they agree on actions. These might include installing safety measures in the home, supporting a housing transfer, arranging mental health support, or pursuing legal interventions. The process is grounded in the principle that no single agency can see the full picture, but collectively they can build a more complete understanding and response.

MARACs are designed to be swift and responsive, often reviewing multiple cases in one session. They are particularly important for identifying patterns of abuse, supporting children affected by domestic violence, and ensuring that victims receive consistent, joined-up support.

Multi-Agency Tasking and Coordination (MATAC) is a strategic approach used to identify and manage the most harmful and serial perpetrators of domestic abuse. Unlike MARAC, which focuses on safeguarding victims, MATAC targets offender behaviour with the aim of reducing reoffending and preventing future harm. It brings together agencies such as the police, probation, housing, health services, and voluntary sector organisations to coordinate interventions tailored to each perpetrator’s risk profile and circumstances.

The MATAC process typically begins with data analysis - often using a Recency, Frequency, Gravity, Victim (RFGV) matrix - to identify individuals who pose the highest risk. Once identified, a multi-agency panel meets to develop a bespoke action plan. This might include referrals to behaviour change programmes, housing support, substance misuse treatment, or mental health services. Where individuals refuse to engage, enforcement measures such as civil orders, target hardening, or Clare’s Law disclosures may be used to disrupt harmful behaviour.

The overarching goal is to break the cycle of abuse by addressing the root causes of offending while safeguarding victims and their families. MATAC is part of a broader “whole system” approach to domestic abuse, complementing victim-focused mechanisms like MARAC.

Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) are a statutory framework in England and Wales but are not limited to domestic abuse alone. Instead, they are designed to manage the risks posed by certain sexual, violent, and other dangerous offenders living in the community. Established under the Criminal Justice Act of 2003, MAPPA brings together agencies such as the police, probation, and prison services - known as the Responsible Authorities - to share information and coordinate risk management strategies. Other organisations, including local authorities, health services, housing providers, and youth offending teams, also have a duty to cooperate with MAPPA processes.

MAPPA operates across three levels of management:

• Level 1: Ordinary agency management, where one partner takes the lead but may consult others.
• Level 2: Active multi-agency management for offenders requiring more coordinated oversight.
• Level 3: The highest level, involving senior representatives and complex risk management planning.

Offenders are categorised into three groups: registered sex offenders, violent offenders sentenced to 12 months or more, and other dangerous individuals deemed to pose a serious risk. Each case is assessed to determine the appropriate level of management, and plans may include supervision, housing restrictions, electronic monitoring, or disclosure of information to protect potential victims.

In 2025, MAPPA was expanded to include offenders convicted of controlling or coercive behaviour who receive a sentence of 12 months or more, recognising the serious harm this form of domestic abuse can cause. This change ensures that such offenders are managed alongside those convicted of physical violence, stalking, or threats to kill.