 The Duluth method challenges abusers' long-held beliefs |
Abusers who carry out domestic violence attacks are to be sent on a Lottery-funded course to learn how to deal with rows without hitting out. Bournemouth-based charity Family Matters has been awarded �220,330 to set up the American-style course.
The course is based on the Duluth Method, which challenges how such abusers traditionally see their role in society and within relationships.
Attending the scheme could now be made a condition in court sentencings.
'Violence accepted'
Attackers will also be able to volunteer for the 30-week course or be referred to it by social workers.
Detective Sergeant Sandra Lambert, domestic violence co-ordinator for Dorset Police, said: "Our statistics show that many perpetrators of domestic violence have grown up in a family environment where violence is accepted and normal.
"The scheme will teach them that this is not the best way to resolve situations."
Mags Smith, manager of women's refuge services for Bournemouth Churches Housing Association, said: "For some time we have held the vision of treating domestic violence using a holistic method."
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