AN initiative that aims to challenge the behaviour of violent partners is launched in Darlington today.

The domestic violence perpetrator programme is the first of its kind and is due to be rolled out across the region by the end of the year.

The programme was set up by Rachel Green, Durham Constabulary's county strategic domestic violence co-ordinator.

She said: "Domestic violence destroys families and has a devastating effect on the victim and their children.

"While it is of paramount importance to provide services for victims and children, we also need to tackle the real problem, which is the violent partner."

For two hours a week, over 34 weeks, violent partners will be made to assess their attitudes towards violence.

At the same time, victims will receive help and support in an environment aimed at building their self-esteem and confidence.

Ms Green said: "The aim of the scheme is not to mend relationships and keep the family together. It may be that the couple separate and, hopefully, if the perpetrator finds another partner they will not be subjected to violence in the way the previous partner was."

The programme is undertaken voluntarily with about 12 participants and, as it is based around modules, others can join at specific intervals.

Backing the programme, Chief Constable Paul Garvin said: "This initiative allows for people who are being abusive to come forward and participate in a programme which will, hopefully, change their behaviour and save victims and their children suffering any further abuse."