The Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Programme (DAPP) contract was awarded to . Route 2 (My Sister’s Place) in June 2018
In March 2021, the PCC approved an Exemption to Standing Orders (ESO)to enable services to continue for an additional 12 months. That covered the period to the end of March 2022.
Extending the current funding for an additional 12 months will enable services that are experiencing capacity and demands due to COVID’19 from being able to bid for the contract that would limit the competitiveness of the market.
More crucially, extending current funding arrangements will result in perpetrators continuing to receive interventions, which challenge and address their offending behaviour.
It will also ensure that victims are protected from abuse post March 2021 without any interruption in service. This is with a view to putting the DAPP contract out to open tender for the next financial year.
DAPP
DAPP is a co-ordinated community response model. The model delivers a behavioural change programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse and domestic violence. Abuse and violence has been committed against partners, former partners, and/ or family members.
The programme challenges perpetrators to positively engage in the DAPP process. It asks them to take accountability for their abusive behaviour. The programme should not be viewed as an alternative to criminal justice.
Having a DAPP pre-established and operational in Cleveland is essential to tackle the rising rates of domestic abuse.
This features in the Police and Crime Plan for 2020 – 2021. It is part of objectives to reduce re-offending and safeguard victims.
Between November 2018 and November 2020, the number of recorded domestic abuse incidents in Cleveland increased by 19%. In the same period the number of domestic abuse incidents that resulted in arrests increased by 84%.
Cleveland’s DAPP aims to reduce the re-offending rates of domestic abuse perpetrators, whilst recognising the impact that the offence has on its victims, and provides safeguarding and support to victims of domestic abuse as part of the intervention.
Aims of the DAPP also include improving the feelings of safety and satisfaction amongst victims, and reducing the number of repeat victims.
To facilitate behavioural change, and promote an incentive for perpetrators to positively change their lives, Route 2 delivers 1:1 motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural techniques as part of the intervention.
Extending funding
Extending funding will allow the service to enhance the service. It will enable the service to include therapeutic counselling, and consultations. It will also provide training and awareness raising to organisations, including schools, colleges and public health settings.
My Sister’s Place (MSP) oversees delivery of the programme. The charity has extensive experience of providing services and support to victims of domestic abuse in Cleveland area.
In addition, MSP has attained RESPECT accreditation. This quality assurance recognises a high quality of service,which Route 2 provides for its work with perpetrators and victims of domestic abuse.
Since the programme started in 2018, more than 180 perpetrators, that have received an intervention from the service
Despite the challenges of COVID19 in the past nine months, Route 2 has demonstrated its commitment to working with organisations to reduce domestic abuse.
Route 2 has attended more than 30 separate, multi-agency meetings, including MATAC, MARAC and SDVC.
Decision 2021-00269346 – Route 2 – Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Programme (application, 210kB)