New training resource on barriers and enablers to leaving a violent relationship

Homeworks Trust has produced a board game for use in training on the barriers of leaving a violent relationship.

Ups and Downs - what helps and what hinders women leaving an abusive relationship is a board game based on traditional Snakes and Ladders. It is designed to engage participants in understanding reasons women might choose to stay or leave a relationship in which they are experiencing intimate partner violence. The game is intended to be used as a tool by family violence training facilitators within a wider training context about intimate partner violence. It is suggested that trainers use the tool after providing information about the prevalence, dynamics and effects of abuse.

As players land on each square, they read out information and progress down the snake or up the ladder as directed. The game also encourages conversations between participants about the issues raised by the square's information. Once the game is completed, trainers can facilitate a discussion about what participants have learnt about what helps or hinders a women to leave a violent relationship.

The tool is not intended for use as a therapeutic tool with victims of family violence.

Watch the YouTube video of the game being played. The game costs NZD$80 + GST. To order, visit the Homeworks Trust website.