TWO courses for women who are or who have been in an abusive relationship are to be run in West Devon.
As part of the Devon County Council initiative on domestic violence, West Devon Women?s Aid is running the free ?Pattern Changing? courses in Okehampton in September and Tavistock in January.
The courses will aim to help women understand domestic abuse, how it affects their lives, and help them recognise their choices and learn techniques for achieving their goals.
Women who attend will receive support and encouragement to change negative patterns to positive patterns of their own choosing as adult women.
The course covers the impact of abuse, why it is hard to leave, and understanding feelings such as grief, fear and anger.
There is also assertiveness training, planning future goals and advice on how to form healthy relationships.
The course will run for two hours for 14 weeks and a free creche will be available. Help is also available with travel expenses.
More information is available from the Outreach office on 01837 53321 from Monday to Friday.
Anyone experiencing any form of abuse or violence from a current or ex-partner or a family member can ring the confidential helpline on 01837 55228 from Monday to Friday between noon and 3pm.