S.A.F.E.

Stopping Aggression in the Family Environment

S.A.F.E. works with male perpetrators of Domestic Violence who wish to change their abusive behaviour. The aim is to help make partners and children safer through working with the perpetrator while supporting the woman. The ethos of the program is clear:

•  Domestic Violence is unacceptable

•  The abuser is always 100 % responsible for his behaviour

•  Domestic Violence is used to control and gain power over a partner

•  Domestic Violence is intentional behaviour – it is a choice

•  Domestic Violence is a learned behaviour

•  Domestic Violence is rooted in historical gender inequalities and institutional power structures in society

•  Perpetrators of Domestic Violence can change

•  The safety of women and children is paramount

The program began in October 2001 and is facilitated by a balance of male and female workers. Weekly sessions are held on Tuesday evenings at a venue in central Walsall , referrals are made directly by the men wishing to attend who are then assessed for their suitability to group work. If accepted they are then invited to join the group at the next intake date, these are usually at four weekly intervals.

The female partners of all men referring to S.A.F.E. are invited to attend the partner support group that meet on Mondays, again in central Walsall . These meetings are structured in line with the perpetrators' program and facilitated by a trained and experienced Stepping Stone's volunteer and our Specialist Social Worker. Women are able to discuss their situation and receive support in a safe friendly environment.

Many men who have been advised to contact us by Social Care and Supported Housing, CAFCASS, or local Solicitors, are now applying to be considered for the program.

We are members of Respect, the national network of perpetrator programs; our staff attend their bi-annual meetings to share information and consider best practice. Respect have a national phone-line for men wishing to locate a local program; referrals have also started to come in via this route.

There are currently 10 men on the program, 3 assessed and waiting to join and a further 6 awaiting assessment. Group sessions run with a maximum of 10.

Call S.A.F.E on: 0779 667 2053