Emotional support for those affected by domestic abuse

Wokingham Borough Council is working in partnership with the NHS as part of a project to help promote a new service to the borough offering emotional support to those affected by domestic abuse.

BRAVE, which stands for building resilience and valuing emotions, provides therapeutic support for people across Berkshire, who have experienced domestic abuse and emotional difficulties following the abuse.

Commissioned by the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, with funding from the Ministry of Justice, the NHS psychology team dedicated to this project provide a group-based programme for clients to learn new skills and ways of coping.

Starting your BRAVE journey

The BRAVE journey starts with an initial assessment that helps understand the person’s current situation, the difficulties they are experiencing and how best they can be helped to overcome them. After the assessment, the person may be invited to join a small 12 week group programme.

Those taking part in group sessions learn about alternative ways to cope with life’s difficulties, engage in group problem-solving, and get support from peers. Previous members have found the groups safe and empowering, helping them to build confidence.

The groups stay the same for all 12 weekly sessions and attendees are not expected to share anything they are not comfortable with.

Robert (name changed to protect his identity), who is currently participating in the new intervention programme for men, said: “Honestly, I was apprehensive about support at first, believing I was coping okay.

"When I was offered BRAVE Too as a men’s specific counselling group, I thought this is something that could potentially really help me deal with the stress of the current situation.

“I believe that the course has already helped me massively in understanding my body's response to the trauma and having tools to nudge it back to a more normal, emotional state.

"The group session set up has provided a space where I don’t feel alone and where I can talk with other men who are going through similar struggles.” 

Emotional support from peers

Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for resident services and climate emergency, said: “We welcome the introduction of this service to our borough and recognise how important emotional support from peers is after someone separates from their abuser.

“We continue to offer support to all residents who need our help, including those directly affected by any form of domestic abuse and those worried about a family member, friend, neighbour or colleague. We are here to help.”

To find out more about support groups run locally by BRAVE.

If you are being subjected to any form of abuse, or worried about someone and want some advice, there is local support available.

The council’s domestic abuse service is delivered by its partners at Cranstoun and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0118 402 1921 or send Cranstoun an email.