A programme to help women free themselves from domestic abuse and the ongoing trauma of abuse has returned to Swindon thanks to charity Society Without Abuse (SWA).
The Freedom Programme is an evidence-based recovery programme that provides vital support to women whether they are still with their abuser or not – bridging a crucial gap in local support as other support and recovery programmes are only available to those who have left the relationship. Whilst the Freedom Programme is available in other areas of the country, it hasn’t been run in Swindon for a number of years.
Emma Maclennan, Children and Families Manager for SWA who delivers the Freedom Programme, explained: “On average, a victim will experience 35 abusive incidents before they seek help. Victims also tend to reach out for support seven times before feeling able to leave and the harsh reality is that most women murdered by a partner are killed when attempting to leave. Therefore, ensuring they have support and understanding while they’re still in the relationship can truly mean the difference between life and death.”
The Freedom Programme is a free, 11-week, rolling course designed by a former probation officer with experience working with victims and those who perpetrate abuse. The course explores the tactics used by abusers, the impact on victims, and what a healthy relationship looks like. Participants are provided with a personal copy of the “Living with the Dominator” book, each chapter mirrors a Freedom session, making it a really useful tool for reflection, following the session.
Women can join the programme at any point, and there is already a supportive and friendly group established in the town. “We’ve been working with a wonderful group of women in Swindon already, and it’s heartening to see them begin to process what they’ve been through and support each other,” Emma added. “Knowing that you’re not alone can be a huge relief for someone living with domestic abuse.”
The programme helps women make sense of what they have experienced and recover emotionally, giving them the skills and confidence to go on to form safe, happy relationships in the future.
“Before Freedom, my life was broken and my heart hurt so much for my son whose world I felt I had just destroyed,” explained one of the programme attendees. “Each session was like a light bulb moment, realising the truth of our abuse. I realised I’d been living in an abusive relationship for years and just learnt my own survival skills.
“The sessions were so powerful; I feel so much more confident in my new relationship. Firstly, I understand myself more. I understand trauma bonding which was a huge revelation for me. I’m able to recognise the behaviours of abuse, which is incredibly empowering. I’d 100% recommend the programme to other women.”
For more information on SWA, visit www.societywithoutabuse.org.uk. To find out more about SWA’s Freedom Programme and how to join it, email Emma Maclennan on emaclennan@societywithoutabuse.org.uk or call 01793 698001.
If you need advice for yourself or a friend relating to Domestic Abuse, call Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610
Article from Vox PR and Marketing
