Reasons for abusive behaviour 'complex'

Cork has seen the highest increase in referrals in the south west of Ireland to a service aimed at rehabilitating violent men.

Between 2022 and 2023, the number of men being referred to MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotion) Ireland grew from 15 to 34, an increase of 126%.

MOVE Ireland runs programmes for men throughout the south west region encouraging them to take responsibility for their behaviour and actions.

Engagement is rising year on year for the organisation with 2024 already seeing a 400% increase of calls to the service.

“Domestic violence does not discriminate based on age, gender, socio-economic background, race, or religion,” said Dr Michelle Walsh, CEO of MOVE Ireland.

She added: “Perpetrators come from all walks of life, and the reasons behind their abusive behaviour can be complex.”

The recent increase in engagement with the organisation means that men are looking for change, said Dr Walsh.

“It’s incredibly encouraging to see that more people are seeking help to change abusive behaviours,” she said.

One service provided by MOVE Ireland is its 23 week Choices programme which focuses on behavioural change, taking accountability and understanding how abusive behaviour can impact others.

One man who has gone through the MOVE programme is 54 year old Derek from Donegal.

“I come from a family of six. I saw so much alcoholism and violence growing up and this had a terrible effect on me. I swore I would never have that in my marriage,” said Derek.

“For years I kept to that promise, I never so much as raised my voice to my ex but one day I slapped my wife and the minute I did it, I felt sick.”

“I was arrested and charged, and my probation officer told me about MOVE. I was asked if I would go on the programme, and I agreed immediately.”

MOVE Ireland currently runs 12 group programmes nationwide, four of which are online. For more information, visit moveireland.ie.