Type: behaviour change programme
Target group: male perpetrators of domestic violence
Aim: support men to end their violent or abusive behaviour and become non-violent and respectful within their intimate partner relationships, thereby securing the safety and wellbeing of women and children
Setting: one-to-one as well as group sessions
Level: individual, relational / interpersonal, community

Men Ending Domestic Abuse (MEND) is a behaviour change programme for men who have been violent or abusive within their intimate partner relationships, which works to increase men’s capacity and willingness to behave in respectful and non-violent ways. Following an initial assessment to determine suitability, men accepted onto the programme complete a series of one-to-one sessions before joining the weekly facilitated group safe space, held in a non-judgmental setting.  

Focusing on the psychological and emotional impact of abuse, as well as the physical, on partners, any children, and the men themselves, the programme supports men to learn how to have non-abusive relationships that are based on love and trust. Men are encouraged to be self-aware, self-reflective and are constructively challenged about their abusive behaviour, leading to changes to keep their partners, children, and themselves safe. 

Men on the programme have either self-referred or been referred by the courts or government agencies. The programme has been running for over ten years and is free for participants, funded by the government’s Department of Justice. MEND offers a parallel one-to-one support service to partners or ex-partners of the men on the programme.