Domestic Abuse Treatment Programmes
DV-ACT experts deliver bespoke 1:1 treatment programmes for parents whose children are in child protection measures /proceedings with domestic abuse concerns.
For vulnerable mothers, we offer an intervention that is more intensive than community-based programmes which focuses on adult attachments, accountability and prioritising their children’s safety in order to support lasting change.
We can also deliver a perpetrator treatment programme for those that are not suitable for group work programmes either because there is no provision (due to language needs, female perpetrator, or location) or they need motivational work on denial and minimisation.
Programme for vulnerable mothers
The 10 session programme is available where either, a risk/vulnerability report has already been completed by an expert or, if the work is instructed to run concurrently, alongside a full vulnerability assessment completed by DV-ACT. The work is tailored to the needs of the mother and will cover the following:
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Motivational work
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Separating and reconciling - examining the process of 'getting back together'
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Emotional attachment to the abuser - examining distorted thinking
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Understanding the cycle of violence and abuse
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Cultural imperatives to remain in the relationship/marriage
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Developing insight into their own experience of childhood
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What is a 'good father'
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Exposure to violence as a child and the impact on adult attachments/learning
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Prioritising the children's safety and risk management
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Understanding the children's experience and reparative parenting
As it is a bespoke programme delivered on a one to one basis, further sessions can be included such as; immigration concerns, violent resistance, honour based violence, drug and alcohol use, self-esteem and self-efficacy.
The programme includes either a final report (where an assessment is completed prior to the programme starting) or a full vulnerability assessment filed upon completion of the programme. The programme is completed by an expert assessor, independent from the treatment worker, and can be used in court proceedings where necessary. The length of time that the programme will take is decided on a case by case basis and depends upon the needs of the mother and whether a report is required urgently for court proceedings. Sessions can take place once or twice a week and double (weekly) sessions are also available.
For further information visit our blog post - How do DV-ACT Experts Work with Mothers to Reduce their Vulnerability? To make a referral or make an enquiry please contact us.
One to one programme for domestic abuse perpetrators
A one to one programme of work can be completed with perpetrators who are unsuitable for a group work programme due to a lack of provision. This could be due to the need for an interpreter, they are a female perpetrator or in a same-sex relationship. This programme of work can be tailored to the needs of the client and will include a final report upon completion. The length of time/number of sessions will be decided on a case by case basis. Please contact us for further information.
Motivational work for domestic abuse perpetrators
In order to be suitable for a domestic abuse perpetrator programme, and for the intervention to be successful, perpetrators must show some acceptance of their abusive behaviour. However, many Fathers can become stuck in a position where entrenched denial and minimisation means that they cannot move on and complete appropriate treatment programmes that will reduce their risk. In cases where a father is willing to complete treatment work, DV-ACT experts can deliver a short intensive motivational programme that will aim to move the client to a position where he is suitable to attend a group work programme. The length of time/number of sessions will be decided on a case by case basis. Please contact us for further information.
