Charities form Plymouth's first domestic abuse partnership to tackle and prevent offending - as well as support victims and families
Today we're reporting on a new partnership, which started this month
Plymouth's first integrated domestic abuse service says as well as working with perpetrators - and offering support to victims and families - it aims to promote healthy relationships and try to combat the so-called 'manosphere'.
The first-of-its-kind local partnership, which began at the start of the month, involves local organisations working much closer together.
Jenny Adjene, CEO of the city's Ahimsa charity which works with those committing the abuse, said: "People who do cause harm can go from one victim to the next.
"Plymouth is a small city and we very much do see that, particularly at the higher end of perpetration. It's about say showing a mirror so somebody can see their own behaviours and then you start to see those lightbulb moments.
"It's a gradual process it's absolutely not a quick fix, especially when that behaviour is entrenched and very, very deep-rooted.
"Domestic abuse won't ever end until we work with people who cause harm.
“We work with people, always with compassion and humanity , but we do hold accountability at the centre and we just support people to recognise and address their harmful behaviours."
The charity boss says tackling online perceptions and misogyny is crucial as part of the partnership's mission to encourage healthy relationships.
"It is without doubt one of the greatest challenges we face, I believe," she said.
"i think it requires a response from everyone, from parents and carers, schools, businesses groups like our charities and from Government.”
Lyn Gooding, Chief Executive of Plymouth based First Light - which operates services in Cornwall and across the West Country, said: "It's not just about supporting one individual but it's about recognising the impact on everybody.
“The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 changes brought about significant change for children and young people as previously they were just regarded as witnesses but in reality they are victims in their own right.”
The First Light boss hopes to empower young people in particular to feel confident in calling out or not accepting ingrained prejudices or misogynistic behaviour, reflecting: "This is about working with our local communities, both young and old, to help them understand what is a healthy relationship - and we need to give them an alternative dialogue as it's too easy to be drawn in."
What exactly is the partnership?
The Integrated Domestic Abuse Service Plymouth (IDASP) brings together four specialist organisations, First Light, Ahimsa, Barnardo’s, and Bridges Outcomes Partnerships, to ;deliver a service for survivors, children, and people seeking to change their behaviour'.
It is funded by Plymouth City Council and the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner.
First Light will offer free, confidential and trauma-informed support for any adult experiencing domestic abuse. Trained advisers take the time to listen, help people understand their situation and their options, and walk alongside them at every stage of their journey.
Ahimsa, a charity founded in 1990 with more than 35 years of experience, will deliver intensive, one-to-one behaviour-change programmes with people posing the highest risk and frequency of harm.
Barnardo’s is the UK’s largest children’s charity, supporting vulnerable children and young people. They will be providing outreach and support to young people and schools across the city.
How do I find out more?
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse in Plymouth, free and confidential support is available now by calling 01752 429 736 or visiting www.idasp.org
In an emergency, always call 999.