Local charities join forcesto fight domestic abuse

The Southern Domestic Abuse Service (SDAS) is teaming up with Victim Support in Gosport to launch the Who’s In Charge Group Programme – a nine-session educational and therapeutic programme for parents whose children act abusively towards them.

The structured programme uses group exercises, discussion, facilitator input and handouts to take parents through the process of attitude and behaviour change.

The main goal is to empower parents, reduce stress and guilt and give them concrete strategies to deal with their children’s behaviour.

Experience shows that there is a reduction over time in a great majority of children’s violent and abusive behaviour, and an improvement in relationships with parents and other family members.

The charity says that in the short term, there is almost always a significant reduction in participant’s feelings of stress, depression and hopelessness.

Claire Lambon, CEO of SDAS, said: ‘We are delighted to be working in partnership with Victim Support again.

‘Sadly, referrals for support to victims of child-to-parent violence are steadily increasing and this project works to reduce a parent’s feeling of isolation, challenge mindsets and create belief in the possibility of change.

‘We look forward to delivering this project in partnership with Victim Support.’

Ian Stiff from Victim Support Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: ‘Working in partnership with SDAS helps us to continue supporting the local community and provide important services for parents and their children.

‘We offer free and confidential emotional and practical help to anyone who has been affected by crime or a traumatic event.’

The main part of the programme is covered in eight consecutive weeks. The ninth session is a follow-up two months later and also allows for a more meaningful assessment of the group’s effectiveness. For more info call SDAS on 023 9248 0246.