Program to work with mum, son

Anti-DV initiative ready to launch

TOOWOOMBA boys as young as eight who use violence in the home will be the subjects of a new program designed to prevent the start of domestic and family violence.

The Domestic Violence Action Centre will launch the Renew program next week, an initiative never tried before in the region.

DVAC’s Toowoomba manager Kath Turley said the program would see boys and their mothers go through a 20-week course, ranging from bonding exercises and educational examinations.

“One of the things we know that happens in families with DV is the perpetrator will often target the relationship and the connection between the mum and the children,” she said.

“What mums find is they’re often in a position where their parenting capacity has been undermined or has been extinguished.

“This program is about look- ing at being able to mend that relationship.”

Up to 10 boys will be involved initially, with participants coming voluntarily or through referrals.

Ms Turley said DVAC wanted to try and break the vicious cycle of boys learning violent traits from their fathers or mother’s spouses.

“We’ve found as kids have grown up and seen violence in their home, boys use violence in their relationship,” she said.

“What we’re looking at is being able to teach young boys about how to manage their feelings and emotions to build that respect for girls and females.”

DVAC will also launch a new perpetrators program next week, working with up to 20 men to curb their use of violence.

Ms Turley said the timing of the launches was appropriate, with May being Domestic Violence Prevention Month.

For more information about the programs and events, call DVAC on 4642 1354.