Domestic violence doesn't have a box that it fits neatly into; it can happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone.

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), Cochrane and Area Victim Services, Elder Abuse Prevention, and Cochrane Addiction and Mental Health have collaborated to put together a program called ‘Healthy Relationships’ designed specifically for men who are looking to break the cycle of violence.

This collaboration, which has been running since 2011, recognizes perpetrators of violence are not defined by this trait alone. No case of domestic violence is cut and dry, and not all couples can, or want, to change the relationship status, due to extenuating circumstances. This is where the program can help.

Annemarie Tocher, FCSS Resource Center Coordinator, says the facilitators of the group are hopeful men who commit to the group are open to change.

“The men who participate in the program become invested in the group and are able to acknowledge what’s occurring in their relationship.”

Healthy Relationships is a weekly two hour meeting where men will learn skills that can help them communicate in a more positive way, deal with conflict in a non violent manner, address addiction and mental health issues, and put strategies in place for repairing relationships, past and future.

Tara Perry, Cochrane Mental Heath and Addictions, Clinical Supervisor, is hoping to engage the community in the difficult conversations about domestic violence, to assist in making this program more successful.

“Very few abusers want to harm their loved ones, and there is real potential for change if they are willing to commit to it, willing to do the hard work”

The steering committee wants to get the message out to residents in Cochrane that there is accessible service for both men and women who want to end the cycle of abusive behavior in their relationships and have a desire to change. 

Signs of domestic abuse include:

  • isolating the victim
  • controlling finances
  • intimidation
  • threats
  • manipulation
  • destroy your property or harming pets

If you or anyone your know may be a victim of abuse the following resources are accessible:

  • Family and Community Support Services 403-851-2250

  • Addiction and Mental Health Services 403-851-6100

  • Cochrane and Area Victim Services 403-851-8055

  • Cochrane Community Health Centre 403-851-6000

  • Cochrane RCMP 403-932-2211 or 911

  • 24 Hr Distress Centre Crisis Line 403-266-4357

  • 24 Hr Community Resource Team 403-299-9699

  • Calgary Communities Against Sexual Assault 1-877-237-5888

  • Child and Family Services 403-297-2995