A local service has launched a new programme to support people in Liverpool who are worried about their behaviour towards a partner or ex-partner.
Make a Change is a free programme that helps people who are concerned that they are hurting, scaring or controlling their current or ex-partner to change their behaviour. It’s available to people over 18 who live, work in, or have a close connection to Liverpool. Anyone who wants to take part in the programme can get in touch and it’s free of charge.
Over the course of the programme, participants are supported by a specialist to understand the impact of harmful behaviour, to make positive changes and develop healthy relationships. Partners and ex-partners of people taking part are offered separate, confidential support to look after their safety and wellbeing.
Make a Change has been launched locally by Merseyside Domestic Violence Service (MDVS), who have been supporting families in the area for over 20 years. The programme was developed by domestic abuse charities Respect and Women’s Aid Federation of England, and is currently running in three other locations across the UK.
Ayla Nasuh, Co-Founder of MDVS, said,
“MDVS are committed to improving the lives of those directly and indirectly affected by domestic abuse and we’re excited to bring Make a Change to Merseyside. We see the programme as an innovative opportunity to add to our existing services and provide people causing harm with help to change at the earliest possible stage.”
A woman whose partner completed the programme in another area said, “It has lifted a weight off our shoulders, both of us just having the opportunity to talk about it and not being judged.”
One man who completed the programme said, “People make mistakes, but change is everything. Getting help was the best thing I ever did.”
As well as working directly with people using and experiencing harmful behaviour, Make a Change offers support to the wider community to help people who have concerns about someone else’s relationship. Local organisations and professionals can receive training to understand harmful behaviours in relationships, learn how to spot the signs and approach the issue safely and effectively.
Rebecca Vagi, National Lead for Make a Change, said, “We’re delighted to be partnering with MDVS in Merseyside. It’s never ok to frighten, control or harm a partner or ex-partner. By empowering whole communities to understand the problem and how to tackle it, we hope to identify the behaviour sooner, stop it continuing or escalating, and provide both people in the relationship with the support they need to make a change.”
For more information, or if you are worried about your behaviour and want some support, call 07754 550525, email makeachange@mdvs.org or visit the Make a Change website at www.makeachange.uk.net.