The Make a Change programme in Trafford have launched their first group supporting people to change their harmful behaviour towards their partner or ex-partner. Make a Change was developed by Respect in partnership with Women's Aid Federation England.
It’s a free programme for anyone over 18 who is concerned that they might be hurting, scaring or controlling their partner. Over the course of the programme, participants are supported by a specialist to understand how harmful behaviours can be abusive and learn to develop healthy relationships. Partners and ex-partners of the participants are also offered separate, confidential support. By offering early support to everyone in the relationship, Make a Change aims to stop harmful behaviour continuing and prevent it from getting worse.
A woman whose partner completed the programme in another area said, “It has lifted a weight off our shoulders, both of us just having the opportunity to talk about it and not being judged.”
One man who completed the programme said, “People make mistakes, but change is everything. Getting help was the best thing I ever did.”
Make a Change is currently running in Trafford, Lincolnshire, Durham and Sunderland. In Trafford, it is delivered locally by Talk, Listen, Change (TLC) and Trafford Domestic Abuse Services (TDAS).
Anita Pluckwell, Community Team Leader for TDAS, said: “TDAS is excited to be part of this innovative programme that tackles harmful behaviours between partners and ex-partners from a new angle.
“We are committed to ensuring that the safety of people experiencing abuse remains at the forefront of the work we undertake, and this programme will be no different. The Make a Change programme offers a holistic approach to tackling harmful behaviours that prioritises the needs of the partner or ex-partner and their children.”
Lisa Wilkie, Adult Services Senior Lead for TLC, said: “At TLC our mission is simple – to support safe, healthy and happy relationships. We are on a mission to end abusive behaviour and prioritise the safety of people experiencing abuse at the heart of what we do.
“For over 10 years, we have offered a range of services and programmes, working with people to change their harmful behaviours. TLC is excited to work in partnership with TDAS and Respect to deliver Make a Change Trafford.”
As well as providing expert support to people using harmful behaviour and their partners, Make a Change offers training for professionals. Local organisations and professionals looking for support to understand harmful behaviours in relationships, as well as how to spot the signs and approach the issue, can sign up for training with the Make a Change Trafford team.
For more information, or if you are worried about you or your partner’s behaviour and want some support, email [email protected] or visit the Make a Change website at www.makeachange.uk.net/trafford.
