|
The 'Make the Change' programme in North Somerset
has been hailed a success.
The voluntary scheme, launched in January, is a domestic abuse
perpetrators' programme and is for men who are worried that they
might be abusive and who want to change their behaviour.
"This innovative programme has generated a lot of interest and
is aimed at helping people change their behaviour," commented Cllr
Ian Peddlesden, executive member for commmunity services.
Men who are concerned that they are guilty of domestic abuse are
encouraged to ask themselves the following questions:
would they treat their boss, mate or next-door-neighbour the
same way as they do their partner?
if someone else were treating their daughter, sister or friend the
same way as they treat their partner, would they consider it okay
or not?
has their partner told them that their behaviour is unreasonable or
abusive?
has their partner either left them or threatened to leave them if
they don't stop being nasty?
have previous relationships gone to the wall due to their
behaviour?
do they long for an open, warm and honest relationship with their
partner and/or children?
are they worried that their partner and/or children might be
frightened of them?
If they answer NO to either of the first two questions, and YES
to any of the others, then this programme is for them!
These are just two of the comments from men who have taken part
in the programme:
"The programme has given me the tools I never understood before and
I'm understanding my thoughts and beliefs when I was in an abusive
relationship with my partner. I now have a better understanding so
I am not abusive anymore.
The programme has helped me to better understand myself and to
better myself; to be non-abusive to my partner."
"I found the programme to be a big eye-opener, a lot of things
that you just take for granted and without any intention is, and
can be, very abusive towards your partner. This programme teaches
you how to recognise the patterns of behaviour, and how to use the
right tools to overcome this abusive behaviour, and then everybody
is happy all round."
The programme runs over a 30-week period in Weston-super-Mare
and is for any man in North Somerset who is worried he is abusive
to his partner and wants to change.
To make a referral contact the Make the Change co-ordinator on
01823 353 456/353 028 or email
ruth.mackie@somersetchange.co.uk
For leaflets about the programme or more details contact Louise
Branch, Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator on 01275 888 355,
louise.branch@n-somerset.gov.uk |