Domestic Abuse
There is no direct evidence to suggest that domestic abuse is a greater problem within the Service community than amongst the wider civilian population. There is, however, evidence that, nationally, the true extent and level of domestic abuse remains hidden.
A Working Group has been set between SSAFA-FH staffs and RAF Community Support to look at the issue of Domestic Abuse and consider how these organisations could work in partnership to ensure the safety and well-being of Service personnel, their children and families.
In the Winter 10 issue of Envoy we er 10 issue we published a discussion artilce by Pat Craven, author of the book Living with the Dominator entitled Mr Right or Mr Wrong. Whether or not to publish this article was a difficult call and some readers may disagree with our decision to go to print on a subject steeped in stigma and taboo. However, on balance, we felt that the subject of Domestic Abuse should not be swept under the carpet and ignored. SSAFA-FH and the RAF CS teams agree, as they have held workshops aimed at addressing these difficult issues. The article and issue is hard hitting, so if you feel you may be upset by it, move on. If, however, you feel you may be a victim or perpetrator of Domestic Abuse, or suspect a friend or colleague may be affected, you may find this information and article of value.
Useful links and references
The FREEDOM programme for Women and Men
Women
It is for any woman who wishes to learn more. It is a free12-week rolling programme, which means that you can join at any point – the benefits are the same so long as you complete 12 weeks. The aims are to:
- To help women understand the beliefs held by abusive men.
- To illustrate the effects of domestic violence on children.
- To assist women to recognise potential future abusers.
- To help women gain self-esteem and the confidence to improve the quality of their lives.
- To introduce women to community resources such as Women’s Aid, the Police Domestic Violence Unit, The Rape and Sexual Abuse
- Centre, local Colleges etc.
Men
I call my courses ‘awareness raising’ programmes and they are open to any man who wishes to improve his relationship skills or simply to find out more. I do not use the word ‘perpetrator’ but refer to my trainees as ‘students’ and I never write reports.
To contact Pat Craven email info@freedomprogramme.co.uk
Crime and Justice pages on the GOV.UK website