DAPP & SPIP

The domestic abuse perpetrator programme (DAPP) aims to help people who have been abusive towards their partners or ex-partners to change their behaviour and develop respectful, non-abusive relationships. Taking part in a DAPP can make a real difference to the lives of those involved, including children who have been affected.

The DAPP takes place in groups involving 8-12 participants, sessions are weekly and outside working time, and lasts for between 2 & 2.5 hours over six months, every DAPP has a parallel service that supports partners and ex-partners at risk from domestic abuse, and this service is offered to them.

Those attending the group sessions will meet others who are in a similar life situation and support each other whilst working through a range of topics designed specifically to provide them with insight into how their behaviour is abusive and how to learn non-abusive behaviour.

The separated parents information programme (SPIP) is a course which helps parents understand how to put their children first whilst they are separating, even though they may be in dispute with each other. The course helps parents understand separation from a child's point of view and learn the fundamental principles of how to manage and reduce the impact of conflict on their children.

The course is a four-hour programme which can be run during the day, evening or weekends, or even split over two-consecutive evenings into two-hour sessions. It is usually delivered to small groups of male and female parents, around six to ten, by experienced, trained and friendly facilitators. Former partners do not attend the same session, but it is important that both parents go on a programme.

The course provides a safe place to:

• Learn what children need most when their parents are separating
• Get support from parents in similar situations
• Develop practical skills and ideas to improve communication and reduce conflict
• Access additional support available to parents and children