Suffolk Constabulary’s Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Unit Continues to Reduce Reoffending

“I’m more mindful and intentional about my behaviour” - Suffolk Constabulary’s Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Unit Continues to Reduce Reoffending

“Completing the programme has taught me a lot about myself…change doesn’t happen overnight—it requires consistency, self-reflection and small, manageable steps. Before the programme, I often acted on impulse or emotion... Now, I’m more mindful and intentional about my behaviour.”

“I liked that I was treated like a human being and not judged.”

“The support offered has been amazing.” 

This is some of the feedback from those who have taken part in Suffolk Constabulary’s voluntary Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Unit (DAPU) programme, which is helping people change harmful behaviours and build healthier relationships.

This year 12 people have successfully completed the programme, bringing the total to 52 completions since its launch in 2021.

Almost 130 people have engaged with the programme, and nearly 30 more are currently active or in the process of joining. Of those who have completed the programme, 78% have not reoffended.

The six-month programme, funded by the Home Office and Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, aims to break the cycle of domestic abuse and reduce harm to victims and families. 

Key elements of the programme include:

•         A minimum of 20 one-to-one sessions with a behavioural change caseworker

•         Exploring the individual’s triggers to why abuse happens and its impact

•         Identifying and practising alternative behaviours

•         Supporting mental health, substance misuse, housing requirements and other needs that can hinder change

•         Providing support to victims, families and children, including safety planning and education on healthy relationships

The programme operates within a multi-agency framework, but it is independent of any court order and is entirely voluntary.

Those who enter the programme must be willing to change and they can self-refer or be referred by a professional party such as social workers, probation officers, the NHS, or directly via the police.

Detective Sergeant Sarah-Jane Primmer said: “The DAPU programme compels perpetrators to take responsibility for their actions and commit to change.

"It aims to shift the societal focus from why doesn’t a victim leave to why doesn’t an abuser change their ways?

“The programme provides an opportunity for those committing domestic abuse to change and break the cycle of abuse, and our caseworks will work with them to help them identify what triggers their inappropriate behaviour. They will also challenge any beliefs or attitudes that fuels this behaviour.

"The perpetrator will then be provided with strategies and coping mechanisms to prevent future harm. It is an inclusive and flexible programme, with sessions adapted and tailored to the individual’s needs.”

Each case is assessed with multi-agency partners to ensure suitability before joining and to review the safety of those who may be involved.

D/Sgt Primmer added: “It’s really important that whilst we work with the perpetrator, we also offer support to partners and children. This equips all parties involved with the tools required to sustain change and prevent harmful patterns from continuing. 

“If children are involved, we have a dedicated IDVA (independent domestic violence advisor) who will meet with them independently, in a neutral environment such as school, to assess their wellbeing and encourage discussions that are not specifically about abuse, but what a healthy relationship is.

“This encourages positive communication and builds understanding of boundaries and respect.

“For those who continue to offend, we will take robust action and bring them to justice because it is important that we hold perpetrators to account and ensure the safety of others.”

At the completion of the programme, the caseworker will remain in contact with the participant on a monthly basis for a further six months to assess progress and offer additional support as required.

The programme is open to everyone over the age of 18, regardless of whether they speak English or not as the DAPU has access to interpreters and translation services.

For more information, please contact DAPU@suffolk.police.uk

The Respect Phoneline also provides help and advice to those looking to change their behaviour: 0808 802 4040

Are you a victim of domestic violence and abuse? Call the 24-hour Suffolk Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline 0800 977 5690 for advice and support.

Help and advice can also be found: Advice about domestic abuse | Suffolk Constabulary

If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or a crime is in progress, call police on 999.

Detective Sergeant Sarah-Jane Primmer and domestic abuse Behavioural Case Worker Briony speak to Georgie Prodromou about the programme - What is the Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Programme?