Up2U: designing and validating a new evidence-based programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change

Authors: Cole, T., Oliver, L., Harvey, O., Healy, J., Sperryn, A. and Barbin, A.

Journal: Frontiers in Psychology

Volume: 16

eISSN: 1664-1078

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1676490

Abstract:

Introduction: Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue rooted in patterns of power and control, contributing to a significant number of high-harm offenses both in the United Kingdom and internationally. While programmes have been aiming to disrupt abusive cycles through the understanding and recognition of harm, there is widespread disagreement on what effective interventions should look like. This study addresses this gap. Methods: A mixed-methods, multi-phase approach was adopted to evaluate the Up2U programme in Dorset, identify current challenges, and offer recommendations for future design based on evidence and best practice. A literature review, a workshop with key stakeholders, interviews, questionnaires, and a focus group with programme providers were conducted. Results: Crucial needs were identified, including the implementation of tailored interventions, hiring skilled facilitators, supporting victims, promoting perpetrator accountability, refining the programme structure, investing in multi-agency collaborations, evaluation, and engagement/retention. Conclusion: Recommendations were drafted aligned with Home Office standards for domestic abuse perpetrator intervention. Designing flexible, evidence-based programmes that center on victim safety while holding perpetrators accountable was a crucial element of the study. Well-trained, supported facilitators and accessible, engaging content are essential for meaningful participation. Ongoing monitoring and impact evaluation to track behavioral changes are proposed.

Source: Scopus

Up2U: designing and validating a new evidence-based programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change.

Authors: Cole, T., Oliver, L., Harvey, O., Healy, J., Sperryn, A. and Barbin, A.

Journal: Front Psychol

Volume: 16

Pages: 1676490

ISSN: 1664-1078

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1676490

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue rooted in patterns of power and control, contributing to a significant number of high-harm offenses both in the United Kingdom and internationally. While programmes have been aiming to disrupt abusive cycles through the understanding and recognition of harm, there is widespread disagreement on what effective interventions should look like. This study addresses this gap. METHODS: A mixed-methods, multi-phase approach was adopted to evaluate the Up2U programme in Dorset, identify current challenges, and offer recommendations for future design based on evidence and best practice. A literature review, a workshop with key stakeholders, interviews, questionnaires, and a focus group with programme providers were conducted. RESULTS: Crucial needs were identified, including the implementation of tailored interventions, hiring skilled facilitators, supporting victims, promoting perpetrator accountability, refining the programme structure, investing in multi-agency collaborations, evaluation, and engagement/retention. CONCLUSION: Recommendations were drafted aligned with Home Office standards for domestic abuse perpetrator intervention. Designing flexible, evidence-based programmes that center on victim safety while holding perpetrators accountable was a crucial element of the study. Well-trained, supported facilitators and accessible, engaging content are essential for meaningful participation. Ongoing monitoring and impact evaluation to track behavioral changes are proposed.

Source: PubMed

Up2U: designing and validating a new evidence-based programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change

Authors: Cole, T., Oliver, L., Harvey, O., Healy, J., Sperryn, A. and Barbin, A.

Journal: FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY

Volume: 16

ISSN: 1664-1078

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1676490

Source: Web of Science (Lite)

Up2U: designing and validating a new evidence-based programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change

Authors: Cole, T., Oliver, L., Harvey, O., Healy, J., Sperryn, J. and Barbin, A.

Journal: Frontiers in Psychology

Issue: 16

Publisher: Frontiers Media S.A.

eISSN: 1664-1078

ISSN: 1664-1078

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1676490

Source: Manual

Up2U: designing and validating a new evidence-based programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change.

Authors: Cole, T., Oliver, L., Harvey, O., Healy, J., Sperryn, A. and Barbin, A.

Journal: Frontiers in psychology

Volume: 16

Pages: 1676490

eISSN: 1664-1078

ISSN: 1664-1078

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1676490

Abstract:

Introduction

Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue rooted in patterns of power and control, contributing to a significant number of high-harm offenses both in the United Kingdom and internationally. While programmes have been aiming to disrupt abusive cycles through the understanding and recognition of harm, there is widespread disagreement on what effective interventions should look like. This study addresses this gap.

Methods

A mixed-methods, multi-phase approach was adopted to evaluate the Up2U programme in Dorset, identify current challenges, and offer recommendations for future design based on evidence and best practice. A literature review, a workshop with key stakeholders, interviews, questionnaires, and a focus group with programme providers were conducted.

Results

Crucial needs were identified, including the implementation of tailored interventions, hiring skilled facilitators, supporting victims, promoting perpetrator accountability, refining the programme structure, investing in multi-agency collaborations, evaluation, and engagement/retention.

Conclusion

Recommendations were drafted aligned with Home Office standards for domestic abuse perpetrator intervention. Designing flexible, evidence-based programmes that center on victim safety while holding perpetrators accountable was a crucial element of the study. Well-trained, supported facilitators and accessible, engaging content are essential for meaningful participation. Ongoing monitoring and impact evaluation to track behavioral changes are proposed.

Source: Europe PubMed Central