Through working with Stockport Domestic Abuse Support, Martin has developed a greater understanding of his emotions, taken accountability for his past actions, and learned strategies to help him build healthier relationships in the future.
Martin was referred to Stockport Domestic Abuse Support in December 2023 by Adult Social Care. A court-directed child arrangements order had been issued, ruling that Martin was to have no contact with his child due to his history of verbal abuse and threats during the court process.
At the time, Martin had just completed an 18-month probation order for assault on his ex-partner and was struggling to manage his emotions.
Martin wanted to address his harmful behaviours so that he could have the opportunity to see his child in the future. He expressed a desire to understand his emotions better and stated:
"I want to change and become a better person for my daughter."
Martin enrolled in the 10-week Striving to Change programme and is currently on session 9.
In the initial one-on-one sessions, Martin appeared to take some responsibility for his actions, but he often blamed his ex-partner and minimized certain behaviours. The facilitator challenged this mindset, encouraging Martin to reflect on his thoughts and actions.
By the midway point of the programme, there was a noticeable shift in Martin’s attitude. He began to take full accountability for his harmful behaviours, recognizing the link between his triggers, emotions, childhood experiences, and actions. This was a significant step forward in his journey.
From session 5 onwards, Martin stopped blaming his ex-partner and demonstrated a deeper understanding of his own role in past conflicts.
Each session was tailored to Martin’s circumstances, and he actively participated by asking insightful questions and providing relevant examples from his own life.
During the session on communication, Martin openly admitted that he had previously used controlling language toward his ex-partner. Recognizing these behaviours was an important step in his progress.
Martin has reported no further incidents of domestic abuse and is actively using the strategies he has learned to manage his emotions and responses in healthier ways.
Reflecting on his experience, Martin shared:
"I can relate the content of the sessions to my life, and this is really helping me. I am learning a lot."
Through his engagement with Stockport Domestic Abuse Support, Martin has taken meaningful steps toward lasting change, demonstrating a commitment to breaking negative patterns and building a healthier future.
