Are MARACs Effective for Harmful Practices? Research Paper and Toolkit

This research explores the under examined but vital area of MARACs and their effectiveness for harmful practices cases, aiming to shed light on these cases, which are often ‘invisible’ in discourse around multi agency processes. It examines whether the model of MARAC works for high risk harmful practices cases, which tend to be complex and can involve multiple perpetrators and multiple forms of VAWG.  The paper explores professionals understanding of harmful practices, the role of specialist by and for agencies, and whether the structure of MARAC works for  these cases. It also discusses alternative models of hearing harmful practices cases. This paper is aimed at all those who are involved in the development, commissioning and coordination of MARACs in England and Wales. The research is accompanied by a toolkit which aims to support local areas to improve practice in managing these cases at their MARACs.