A local initiative tackling the causes of domestic abuse has been praised in an independent evaluation, which highlights its role in reducing harmful behaviour and supporting families.
Society Without Abuse’s Open2Change programme works one-to-one with people who display abusive behaviour, helping them understand why they act as they do and explore safer ways to respond. It also works alongside colleagues supporting victims and children, creating a joined-up approach that looks at the whole family rather than just one part.
The programme was recently reviewed by the University of Worcester, led by Dr Beverley Gilbert, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, alongside Amy Johnson and Dr Mikahil Azad. Dr Gilbert, who spent three decades in policing and probation and specialised in domestic abuse cases, said the findings underline the programme’s value.
“One size does not fit all when addressing abuse,” Dr Gilbert said. “Open2Change allows people to unpick the harm they have caused and start making changes. It also looks at wider pressures such as mental health, finances, housing and addiction.”
The report found participants experienced improvements in their wellbeing and a noticeable reduction in conflict and abusive behaviour, both in personal relationships and the wider community.
Louisa Wrighton, Open2Change Manager, said the findings confirmed what the team has seen over the past five years.
“This programme is about more than helping victims; it tackles the behaviour at its source. The review gives us a clear direction to continue improving and expanding our work, helping more people and families in the process.”
The full evaluation is available at www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk/service/open2change
