DV-ACTION Programmes
Domestic Abuse Prevention/Perpetrator Programme (DAPP)
DV-ACT provides a structured domestic abuse prevention (perpetrator) programme (DAPP) delivered by trained, experienced domestic abuse prevention practitioners. This work can now take place remotely using video call technology (with Zoom or similar) giving access to parents across the UK. All DV-ACT programme work includes partner support and a full final report by an expert risk assessor, ensuring that parties are fully informed of the progress made.
The programme is designed to work with parents in the UK where the local authority has concerns regarding the risk of harm to children due to the parents use of domestic abuse. It is delivered as an intensive one-to-one intervention for local authority cases (child in need, child protection, PLO or care proceedings) particularly for those who have complex needs, are unable to undertake a groupwork programme (such as those who need a translator, have learning difficulties or where there is a lack of provision for example female perpetrators or same-sex perpetrators) or need a tailored intervention.
Please note that we are unable to work with parents where there are ongoing criminal investigations or proceedings relating to domestic abuse.
The programme is suitable for those who:
-
are able to speak about their use of abusive behaviour
-
accept that they have used abusive behaviour
-
demonstrate some motivation to change their behaviour
-
are willing to attend and complete the full programme
-
do not have any pending criminal proceedings for domestic abuse
-
are not already attending a programme with probation.
Self Referrals
Parents can self-fund the programme but we can only accept self-referrals in cases where there is involvement from children's services (CIN, CP Plan, PLO and care proceedings) and the allocated social worker is in agreement with the referral. Please note that we will require documents that outline the local authorities concerns around domestic abuse.
We do not accept private self-referrals in any other circumstances (including private family law cases).
Features of the DV-ACTION Bespoke DAPP
Focused
A focused programme of work is delivered by a dedicated domestic abuse prevention treatment specialist.
Bespoke
Sessions are tailored to cover specific areas of concern and to meet the requirements of the child protection plan.
Accessible
One to one sessions are delivered remotely across the UK and are available to those who require an interpreter or who have additional needs.
Court Ready
The work is recorded accurately and reported upon completion to help inform the child protection plan.
Partner Support
Confidential support will be offered to current/ex-partners of parents who attend our programme.
Programme session content
As sessions are delivered on a one to one basis, there can be a particular focus on specific areas of concern raised by the courts or to meet the requirements of the child protection plan.
The programme will cover all the topics usually delivered within a DAPP including:
-
Strategies for reducing violence
-
Analysing feelings and behaviour
-
Motivation to change
-
Power and control
-
Parenting
-
Emotional abuse
-
Developing empathy
-
Sexual respect and intimacy
-
Respectful relationships
-
Positive self talk
-
Attitudes towards women.
The programme consists of 18 or 24 sessions delivered on a one-to-one basis remotely using a video calling app (such as Zoom) by an experienced treatment worker. Further sessions can be added if required at the discretion of the treatment worker. Sessions will then take place weekly with an additional session towards the end of the programme where the expert assessor will meet with the client in order to complete the final assessment report.
Programme Delivery
DAPP
Through intensive 1:1 sessions, DV-ACT experts aim to move the parent to a position where they can take responsibility for their abusive behaviour and make positive steps towards change.
They will also work on increasing their awareness and understanding of abuse, the role of power and control, how this affects victims and their children and applying this to their own behaviour.
