A strengths-based approach to preventing domestic abuse in Swansea

What is the project?

The Equilibrium Domestic Abuse Behaviour Change and Healthy Relationships Programme is an intervention programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse.

It’s been developed by the Domestic Abuse Hub in Swansea for fathers who have used abusive behaviours towards their partners or ex-partners. 

The intervention focuses on early identification and uses a strengths-based approach to find solutions and prevent repeat referrals.

While aimed mainly at perpetrators of domestic abuse, the intervention includes a service for victims and survivors of abuse. It also includes a programme for children and young people who’ve been exposed to abusive behaviour.

The approach is based on a relationship-style approach, where perpetrators are offered an opportunity to change their behaviour to engage in safe, respectful and sustainable intimate relationships. The programme helps individuals to consider the consequences of their actions, supporting them to examine ways their lives and relationships can be improved through their choices and actions.

To make sure this programme is effective, they’ve achieved accreditation by linking in with Respect - a charity which works to stop perpetrators of domestic abuse. 

The team also work closely with Swansea University to evaluate their work. 

They’ve carried out a qualitative study on the outcomes of perpetrators who‘ve completed the programme. The study highlighted some very positive feedback from people who’ve been involved about how the intervention has helped them.

The team were invited to present at the International Association of Forensic Mental Health Conference in San Francisco in June 2024. 

Why is it being carried out?

Domestic abuse is a major issue with serious psychological, social, societal and economic impacts. 

As a result, there’s been an increased focus by policymakers, statutory agencies and third-sector organisations on addressing the harms associated with domestic abuse. 

The Domestic Abuse Hub at Swansea Council realised that although they offered support for people who’ve experienced domestic abuse, this was only addressing part of the issue. 

The team felt a programme was needed for perpetrators that focused on prevention. 

The main aim of the work is to prevent repeat referrals coming into the service by developing an intervention that provides support.

This journal article gives background information to the programme.

When and where did the project take place?

This work is currently being carried out in Swansea’s community social services settings.

Who's involved?

The work is being carried out by Swansea Council, with support from Swansea University.

What have they learned from the work?

A qualitative study has been carried out to look at the outcomes of the intervention. The findings so far have been promising. 

This includes statements from people who’ve taken part about how the intervention has impacted on different areas of their lives. The data received so far has been collected from perpetrators and has been mainly positive.

There are plans to complete similar studies with the men’s partners or ex-partners, referrers and facilitators. This should give the team a more complete view of the programme’s effectiveness. 

The team would also like to understand more about the experiences of children and young people.