Domestic Abuse Programmes During Family Court Proceedings
You do not necessarily have to wait until family court proceedings have concluded to begin addressing harmful behaviours.
At MENSCAPE CIC, we recognise the importance of taking responsibility and beginning meaningful behaviour change at the earliest appropriate opportunity.
Our independent Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Programme (DAPP) accepts self-referrals from men involved in ongoing private family court proceedings, subject to an initial suitability and safeguarding assessment.
Understanding the position of non-Respect-accredited programmes
Many accredited programmes are unable to accept men while private family court proceedings are ongoing, which can leave fathers waiting months before they are able to begin work on their behaviour.
The Family Court judgment in M v F [2024] EWFC 234 (B) acknowledged that programmes without Respect accreditation may be considered where appropriate evidence demonstrates that their duration and content are equivalent to those of an accredited programme.
MENSCAPE CIC is a Respect Associate Member, and our facilitators have undertaken Respect training. However, we do not claim to hold Respect programme accreditation.
What the programme covers
Our structured programme focuses on:
- accountability and taking responsibility
- recognising patterns of abusive behaviour
- understanding the impact on partners and children
- developing safer, more respectful relationships
Information for professionals
Where appropriate, programme documentation and progress reports can be provided to assist professionals involved in family court proceedings. Acceptance of any programme as suitable remains a matter for the court and relevant professionals.
Important referral information
MENSCAPE CIC does not accept referrals where an active criminal investigation relating to domestic abuse is ongoing.
All applications are considered individually, with safeguarding and risk assessment informing suitability.
Enquire about our DAPP
If you are involved in family court proceedings and wish to explore whether our programme is suitable for your circumstances, please contact MENSCAPE CIC for an initial discussion.