People concerned about their behaviour towards a loved one can now get the support they need to change following the launch of a new website.
The website, developed by the ‘Make A Change’ project, means that anybody concerned about the way they are treating a partner – as well as family, friends and professionals who want to help them change – can get advice and make a self-referral for support and intervention.
‘Make a Change’, a pilot in Lincolnshire and Sussex, is a project developed by Respect, in partnership with Women’s Aid and delivers an early response to domestic abuse. It creates opportunities for change for those who use abusive behaviours in their relationships.
The project is already proving to be a success, with over 300 practitioners due to receive ‘Recognise, Respond and Refer’ training in Lincolnshire by the end of 2019. The project is funded by the Home Office and supported by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Lincolnshire Police and local authorities.
Mark, a Make a Change participant, received help and support to transform his behaviour. He said: “I can’t undo 20 years of damage, I wish I had done it sooner. The programmes are so much help.”
Marc Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, is passionate about working alongside partners on this project. He said: “Domestic abuse is not always physical in nature; coercive and controlling behaviour is just as damaging but harder to identify as signs are not outwardly obvious.
“I encourage anybody worried about the way they are treating a loved one to get the support they need to change.
“I am fully committed to working collaboratively with partners to achieve early recognition of abuse, swift action and prevention of re-offending.”
Sarah Norburn, Domestic Abuse Coordinator for Lincolnshire Police said: “This is about putting a stop to domestic abuse at the earliest possible opportunity; by reaching out to those who are worried about their own behaviour, or worried about how someone’s treating their partner, to take the first steps to make a change.
“We want to help those who are committed to making things better and access the help they need, whilst ensuring appropriate safeguarding and support services are in place. Make a Change, visit the website or make the vital call.”
For more information and to request support, visit www.makeachange.uk.net or call 01522 246616.
