Attendance to any of these groups is completely confidential.
The Children and Family Wellbeing Service (CFWS) offer various groups to suit different ages and situations. They aim to educate, advise and encourage you to share your story and build your confidence.
Each group has its own eligibility criteria and depends on whether domestic abuse is a current or a past experience.
Groups
These groups allow participants to meet and work with others who have had similar experiences of domestic abuse.
Groups for children aged 8-16 years
Feeling Safe programme
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Feeling Safe programme is held as one-to-one sessions. A key worker will support your child at home, school or at one of our centres.
Who this group is for
This 10-week group is for children who have experienced domestic abuse in the past and it isn’t appropriate for children who live in a home where it is still a factor.
Aims of the group
It is a therapeutic group that gives children an opportunity to share their story and meet others who have been in a similar situation. It teaches children that domestic abuse is wrong, that it wasn’t their fault and it is ok to talk about it.
Groups for parents and carers aged 16+
Freedom programme
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Freedom programme is held online. Once you're enrolled, you can log in at a time suitable for you.
Who this group is for
This group is for parents and carers who have experienced or are currently in a situation of domestic abuse.
Aims of the group
It aims to:
- explore the different types of abuse and what constitutes abuse
- explore and challenge the beliefs held by perpetrators of domestic abuse
- look at the effects of domestic abuse on children
- help to recognise warning signs and potential abusers
- help to build self-esteem and confidence
- enable contact with other parents and carers who have similar experiences
Recovery Toolkit - continuation of the Freedom programme
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Recovery Toolkit programme is currently on hold. Please contact our service for support and to discuss your individual situation.
Who this group is for
This 12-week group is for parents and carers who have already attended and completed the Freedom programme and need further support with recovering from historic abuse.
Aims of the group
The course uses a unique approach of psycho-education, trauma focused cognitive behavioural therapy and person-centred therapeutic principles.
Unbroken - continuation of the Freedom programme
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Unbroken programme is currently on hold. Please contact our service for support and to discuss your individual situation.
Who this group is for
This 8-week group is for parents and carers who have already attended and completed the Freedom programme and need further support.
Aims of the group
The group uses cognitive behavioural therapeutic approaches. Its predominant focus is to promote personal growth and development when leaving an abusive relationship.
Unbreakable - continuation of the Unbroken programme
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Unbreakable programme is currently on hold. Please contact our service for support and to discuss your individual situation.
Who this group is for
This 6-week group is for parents and carers who have already attended and completed the Unbroken programme and need further support with moving forward following a domestic abuse relationship.
Aims of the group
It aims to:
- boost confidence, self-esteem and motivation
- learn self-improvement techniques and skills
- enable and support personal growth and well-being
- learn how to inspire and motivate yourself
Group providers
The group is created by Living Without Abuse (LWA) and co-delivered with United Against Violence and Abuse (UAVA)
One-to-one support
We offer personal support to families and children to improve different aspects of their lifestyle, such as parenting skills, emotional and physical health and wellbeing, and behaviour management.
Support for children and families
Brief family support
Who this support is for
Support for children and families from a family wellbeing worker for a period of up to 12 weeks.
Aims of this support
Intervention could include:
- DASH risk assessment and CFWS assessment
- Direct work with families and children
- Voice work which may include words and pictures
- Links to National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) and support of a non-molestation order
- Onward referrals and liaison with partners
Intensive family support
Who this support is for
Support for children and families from a key worker for a period of up to 12 months.
Aims of this support
Intervention could include:
- DASH risk assessment and CFWS assessment
- Direct work with families and children
- Voice work which may include words and pictures
- Links to National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) and support of a non-molestation order
- Multi-agency meetings
- Onward referrals and liaison with partners
Further information and requesting a service
For further information on our services, contact details and requesting a service, please visit our Children and Family Wellbeing Service home page.