A pioneering domestic abuse prevention programme, first launched in Swindon, is now being rolled out across Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES).
Open2Change, run by Swindon-based charity Society Without Abuse (SWA), works directly with people who use harmful behaviours in relationships. The one-to-one support helps participants recognise the damage caused, explore the root causes, and make lasting changes.
The programme will now be delivered in Bath, Radstock and Keynsham, co-located with Avon and Somerset Police, thanks to a new partnership between the police, B&NES Council and SWA.
Since 2021, Open2Change has operated successfully at Gablecross Police Station in Swindon. An independent evaluation by the University of Worcester found it was effective in reducing abusive behaviours, improving wellbeing and breaking the cycle of repeated domestic abuse incidents.
Tackling root causes
Louisa Wrighton, Manager of Open2Change, said:
“Open2Change targets the root cause of domestic abuse – the behaviour of the perpetrator. By reducing and removing this behaviour, we can help stop the cycle of abuse, protect victims and children, and bring safety to families.”
Chief Inspector Scott Hill, Area Commander for B&NES, added:
“Domestic abuse accounts for around 20 per cent of Avon and Somerset Police incidents. Many abusers are repeat perpetrators. Intervening to stop these patterns of behaviour is paramount to protecting those affected.”
Councillor Manda Rigby, B&NES Cabinet Member for Communications and Communities, said she hoped the programme would replicate Swindon’s success:
“Victims and survivors must remain at the centre of all support to prevent and reduce domestic abuse. I welcome this programme and look forward to seeing the positive impact here.”
