Making Children's Safety and Wellbeing Matter

Abstract

It is always a challenge to work with families in a way that takes into account the multiple perspectives and influences on their lives as individuals, in relationship with each other, and their identity as a family. In the present paper, I draw on my work within Family Violence Intervention Programs. The program I worked in ran men's behaviour change groups while also working closely with the partners and childrenof these men towards their safety and wellbeing. This is an organisational context where the privileging of children's experiences has not been adequately explored. The present paper offers a framework to engage in therapeutic work with children. It uses the context of family violence support work to explore safety and wellbeing, while also appreciating the complexity and richness of family life.

Abstract

Keywords:

• Children
• Domestic Violence
• Family Violence
• Men's Behaviour Change Group

Acknowledgements

The author acknowledges the encouragement, insight, and editorial support of Amanda Hawkey. The author also acknowledges Andrew Compton and Susie Costello for supporting me to document my ideas about this complex, yet crucial, work with children who live with violence in their homes.