Domestic violence - Cuts to funds will backfire

It is hard to know whether to be heartened or dismayed by the dramatic increase in the number of men seeking help with violent behaviour.

Almost instantly, thoughts go to the spouses, partners and children who suffer the hell of domestic abuse at these men’s hands.

However, at least these men recognise they have a problem and are taking the first steps to deal with it. The last thing they should face when they come forward is a waiting list for an assessment and a place on a treatment programme.

Often, individuals and families get to breaking point before help is sought and if it can’t be provided swiftly, it can be too late.

Move (Men Overcoming Violence) is doing its best but the recession is confounding it in all ways — igniting greater tensions in the home while restricting the state funds it needs to run its services.

Every voluntary organisation is stuck for money but in this case, penny wise, pound foolish should be the guiding motto.

The cost of women’s refuges, prison places, hospital beds and the long-term social effects of broken homes and damaged childhoods is much higher.