By Luke Voogt
A program for male perpetrators of family violence has experienced a significant increase in demand during COVID-19 restrictions, according to the agency running it.
More than 200 men involved in the program were “engaging” with specialists more often, according to Bethany Community Support chief executive officer Grant Boyd.
“What we are observing is a notable increase in their engagement with our specialist men’s family violence team,” he said.
Bethany had recorded almost “100 per cent engagement” with all men and their ex or current partners since the first day of lockdown on March 23, Mr Boyd said.
The agency calculated the figure based on the amount of interaction between participants and specialists, he explained.
“To achieve that level of engagement is unusual and, as we understand it’s a trend that is being realised across a number of places across Victoria.
“[It] is still a little perplexing for us to understand.”
Mr Boyd said the increase could be a result of increased isolation due to social restrictions and the pandemic motivating participants to become better men.
The pressures of job losses, children being at home more and home-schooling were also factors increasing the chance of violence occurring, he said.
“Evidence suggests that when families are experiencing a significant crisis, such as a pandemic, then the stress of this may contribute to an increase in violence.
“But … using violence is always a choice.”
While some participants had simply complied with restrictions, others had used them as “a tactic of control”, Mr Boyd said.
“For example, saying to family members ‘you can’t leave the house because you will get [COVID-19]’, threatening to bring friends over and proclaiming that the friends have [COVID-19].”
Bethany’s Men’s Behaviour Change Program encourages men to take responsibility for their violence, understand its impact and develop respectful relationships with partners and children.
Mr Boyd praised the men that were using the service more for acknowledging they had a problem and attempting to improve their behaviour.
“They are demonstrating a stronger commitment to preventing their use of violence,” he said.
For support phone Orange Door Geelong on 1800 312 820 or Bethany on 5278 8122, or visit info@bethany.org.au.
