DV-ACTION Programmes
Bespoke Programme for Mothers
This groundbreaking new programme was designed by DV-ACT experts to fill the gap in provision for mothers in child protection measures. This programme uses a blended learning format of one to one sessions with a domestic abuse treatment specialist and online learning with a focused programme of work to match the needs of the child protection plan and the client's own learning style. Technology is provided along with a full final assessment report upon completion as well as lifelong access to the DV-ACTION learning programme to support lasting change.
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This programme is particularly suitable for mothers who have:
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an enduring emotional attachment to their abuser
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a history of more than one abusive relationship
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had their ability to make safe decisions impacted by abuse
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have a history of difficulties in permanently escaping the relationship
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have had previous children’s services involvement
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Features of the DV-ACTION bespoke programme for mothers
Focused
Safeguarding children is the primary focus with sessions designed specifically for mothers to aid child protection and reparative parenting.
Bespoke
Focused 1:1 sessions are delivered by a domestic abuse specialist supported by an array of online learning to meet main areas of concern.
Accessible
Content is matched to the client's learning style and abilities with a tablet provided to enable access to sessions and online learning.
Sustainable
Clients are given ongoing access to the learning platform and tablet with tailored content to support their recovery and parenting in the future.
Court Ready
The work is recorded accurately and assessed upon completion to help inform the decisions of the court/local authority.
Programme session content and delivery
1:1 sessions with an expert treatment worker take place via video calling with clients accessing online materials on a purpose-built learning platform that reinforces the learning at home between sessions and after completion.
Each client will have topics relevant to their treatment plan released each week with learning, interactive activities and reflective material that will be matched to their needs and learning style. While each programme of work is unique and tailored to the needs of the case, sessions can include the following:
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Domestic abuse knowledge - covering subjects such as power and control, sexual abuse and coercive control.
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Attachment - exploring reasons why the mother remained in the relationship, understanding the emotional attachment to the abuser and pressures to reconcile.
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Children - with a focus on understanding the effects of abuse on the child and reparative parenting.
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Safety planning - focusing on prioritising children's safety, crisis management and early warning signals.
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Personal insight - discussing the impact of the abuse, exploring childhood experiences and reasons for vulnerability.
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Moving forward - building self-esteem, how to work collaboratively with professionals and what to do when starting a new relationship.
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Additional needs - this will cover specific needs not included in the above areas such as alcohol abuse, grieving and loss, the use of violent resistance and immigration concerns.
This unique programme will give clients access to a wealth of learning and resources which they can continue to use for as long as they wish after their programme has ended. In this way, we can promote lasting change and continue to support mothers as they recover from the abuse they have experienced, repair their relationships with their children and plan for future relationships.
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What people say about our programme
Reducing Vulnerability
The needs of mothers in care proceedings or child protection measures are often complex, with enduring problems around adult attachments, accountability and prioritising their children’s safety.
In these cases, intensive, challenging and focused work is needed in order to support lasting change.