A new program launched by the John Howard Society of the Central and South Okanagan (JHSCSO) seeks to prevent intimatepartner violence by helping men who have been abusive.
The 15-week program, called Stop Taking it Out on Your Partner (STOP), is funded by the RCMP and offered to men who arementally, physically and/or emotionally abusive.
The voluntary program, which begins Jan. 23, is targeted at men who have abused or threatened to abuse, or have usedcontrolling behaviour in intimate relationships.
Participants may not have current domestic violence charges against them.
Facilitated by a highly-trained, male-female team of two experts, STOP helps men learn to communicate with their partners inpositive, non-threatening and non-violent ways. The program also helps participants develop empathy and compassion for theirpartners, and choose to engage differently.
STOP is a free program, and participants must commit to attending all sessions.
The JHSCSO is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers housing, employment and outreach supports to people who havebeen involved in the justice system, live with mental health or addiction issues, or other life challenges. Our mandate effective,just and humane responses to the causes and consequences of crime.
For more information on STOP, or to apply to participate, visit the JHSCSO website or contact Gaelene Askeland, Executive Director or call 250-763-1331.