The Freedom Programme is about abusive and controlling behaviour in relationships.
The philosophy of the programme is based on research that shows that in the majority of cases domestic abuse is committed by men against women. Each week looks at a different aspect of behaviour, looking at what the abuser says and how it is said, what the abuser does and why we believe them. It helps to identify the common tactics to gain power and control. The group works to look at the characteristics that can create both abusive and caring relationships.
The sessions are presented in a friendly but structured way, giving the opportunity for anyone to contribute if they wish to. The group sessions explore characteristics of abusive behaviour and supports women to develop ways of thinking and behaving to protect themselves and their children from harm.
Frequently Asked Questions…
Q: I’ve been wanting to go to the Freedom Programme for a while, but I have missed a few sessions, and I’m worried that I won’t be able to catch up. Do you think I should wait until the beginning of the next programme to start?
A:Don’t worry at all about missing sessions, although most benefit is gained from completing all of the sessions in order, you can join the group whenever you like, even in week 11. It’s a rolling programme, so if you have to miss a few it won’t matter since each week is a different topic.
Q: I really want to come to the Freedom Programme but I’m worried that people will know why I’m there. What should I do?
A: We have a strict confidentiality agreement. We do not discuss anyone’s details within the group and insist that ‘whatever is said in the room stays in the room’.
Q:I want to go to the Freedom Programme this week, and I think it will be really useful and help me to build up my confidence, but I’m really nervous about going for the first time, and I’m worried I’ll have to talk about my experiences. What should I do?
A: There really is nothing to be concerned about. No one will ask you to talk about anything you don’t want to. The programme is a safe environment, and the group is asked for complete confidentiality.
Programme Aims
To help women recognise the beliefs held by abusive men.
To recognise the impact of their life experience on their own attitudes and beliefs.
To illustrate the effects of domestic abuse on children.
To increase a woman’s ability to recognise what steps she needs to take to protect her children.
To consider the characteristics that can create both abusive and caring relationships.
To assist women to recognise potential future abusers.
To help women gain self-esteem and the confidence to improve the quality of their lives.
To introduce women to the community resources, such as: Women’s Aid, The Police Domestic Abuse Unit, The Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, local colleges, employment, group work, support networks etc.
Mr. Right
Mr. WRONG
Is cheerful
Consistent
Supportive
Trusts you
Uses your name
Is an equal parent
Trusts your judgment
Admits to being wrong
Is a responsible parent
Tells you you look good
Tells you you’re competent
Shares financial responsibility
Welcomes your friends & family
Does his share of the housework
Supports your learning and career
Encourages you to be independent
Accepts that you have a right to say “no” to sex
Takes responsibility for his own well-being and happiness
Expects you to be responsible for his well-being
Threatens or wheedles you to get his own way
Never does his share of the housework
Seduces your friends/sister/anyone
Uses the children to control you
Makes you feel ugly & useless
Turns the children against you
Cuts you off from your friends
Never looks after the children
Blames you, drugs, drink etc.
Never admits he is wrong
Expects sex on demand
Controls the money
Stops you working
Calls you names
Smashes things
Shouts
Sulks