A service to help abusive men change their ways while safeguarding their partners and children has been recognised.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s Living Without Violence programme is the first community-based UK scheme to be accredited by Respect.
Now in its fifth year, it has helped more than 50 men complete its course at the Clermont Unit and Whitehawk Valley Social Centre, with another 43 attending part of it.
More than 100 women partners and ex-partners have also received support from the women’s safety worker.
An independent evaluation last year showed it had helped lower violence and alcohol and substance abuse. The results of another study are due shortly.
Councillor Dee Simson, cabinet member for community affairs and inclusion said: “The programme was able to show how it really makes a difference, helping abusive men change their behaviour while at the same time making sure partners, former partners and children are safe.
“The project is delivered by a small team of dedicated staff. They thoroughly deserve recognition for their service to families suffering domestic violence.”
Respect is an organisation which oversees perpetrator programmes across the UK and has developed rigorous standards to ensure safe practice and quality of delivery.
To get accreditation, services have to satisfy 105 different criteria, with a focus on skilled practitioners, strong partnerships and clear structures, policies and procedures.
I would like to no the cost of the living with out vilance course as my partner was kick off as he missed four due to I’ll ness and we won’t to keep our family together as with out thidls social services recomdations are to split