Dr Michelle Walsh, CEO of MOVE Ireland, explained that referrals have increased by 33 per cent in Kerry: 15 cases in 2022 to 20 cases in 2023.
She added this trend is reflected throughout the southwest region where an overall increase of 49 per cent in referrals have been reported. Calls to MOVE, nationally, are also increasing year on year with a 400 per cent rise to the service in 2024.
Dr Walsh stated that male perpetrators come from all walks of life, and the reasons behind their abusive behaviour can be complex, involving a combination of personal history, psychological issues, and learned behaviour. She said men are looking for change.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see that more people are seeking help to change abusive behaviours. Men’s willingness to seek support reflects a growing awareness and a positive shift in addressing the roots of domestic violence,” she said.
“When individuals come forward, it not only opens the door for personal growth and accountability but also fosters healthier relationships and communities,” Dr Walsh added.
MOVE runs programmes for men throughout the southwest region encouraging them to take responsibility for their behaviour and actions. The ‘Choices Programme’ focuses on behavioural change, taking accountability and understanding how abusive behaviour impacts others.
“The programme is aimed at rebuilding individuals’ understanding of healthy relationships, which is key to helping breaking cycles of abuse,” Dr Walsh said.
“Domestic violence, from a perpetrator perspective, is probably one of the last taboos, shrouded in secrecy and shame for both the abuser and the abused but the more people hear about it, talk about it and face it the more chance we have of changing this damaging behaviour,” she added.
Dr Walsh explained that domestic violence encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviours that goes beyond physical harm, and involves various forms of manipulation, control and intimidation, including sexual abuse and coercive control.
“We work with all if it,” she said. “We also work with the partners and ex partners of the men on the programme. In one instance we supported a number of current partners of one of the group participants as he continued to replicate his behaviour from partner to partner.
“Similarly, we have seen changes in the demographics of the groups. Recently, we have received a referral for a same-sex couple and are actively supporting both perpetrator and their partner. Whilst we do not document ethnicity, we assess language needs during the referral process to ensure accessibility for those who may face difficulties with English,” Dr Walsh said.
MOVE Ireland launched its Strategic Policy Plan and Statistics Report in Dublin on Monday (December 9).