The Caledonian System is an integrated approach to address domestic abuse perpetrated by men towards a female partner or ex-partner. It works with men convicted of domestic abuse related offences to reduce their reoffending and improve the lives of women, children and the men through the provision of integrated services.
The Caledonian System comprises:
- The Men's Service – a programme of work lasting at least two years comprising preparation and motivation sessions; a groupwork programme of 26 sessions and maintenance sessions.
- The Women's Service – safety planning, information, advice and emotional support to women partners and ex-partners.
- The Children's Service – ensures the needs of the children whose parents are involved with the Caledonian System are met and their rights upheld.
Assessment
The man is assessed to ensure his suitability for the programme. The programme assessor collects information on his pattern of offending, risk of re-offending, impact of his offending and his motivation to change. A programme assessment report is submitted to court outlining the man's suitability for the programme.
Access to the Programme
Men access the programme after receiving a Programme Requirement as part of the Community Payback Order received after being convicted of offences involving domestic abuse.
The Caledonian System in Falkirk is delivered by Falkirk Council's Caledonian & Groupwork Team.
The Caledonian System: Women & Children's Service
The Caledonian Women's and Children's service offers emotional and practical support to women, advice on safety planning, risk assessment and advocacy. By working in partnership with the woman it aims to reduce her vulnerability and works with other services such as social work and the Police, so they can better support the woman and her family.
The woman's participation is purely voluntary and she can choose to withdraw from the service at any time.
The Children's Service works with other agencies to ensure that a plan is in place for the child which meets their needs and reduces the impact of domestic abuse on their lives.