An โunprecedented demandโ for violence prevention programs during COVID-19 has seen waitlists for the services of ACT menโs referral service partner, EveryMan, blow out to eight weeks.
EveryMan has received more than 300 referrals for counselling and group programs since late February but was forced to deliver its programs over the phone until social distancing requirements could be met.
EveryMan chief executive officer Greg Aldridge said despite the changes in operations, the referral service remained active during lockdown and men were always able to call and seek connections with external services.
โWe made sure anyone struggling with their anger had somewhere to ring,โ he said.
After months of adjusted services, they are re-opening their group programs.
EveryMan began as a two day a week drop-in centre with one part-time counsellor. Now, 15 years later, the organisation has eight counsellors and one case worker who deliver services in counselling, group programs and violence prevention services.
Mr Aldridge said EveryMan takes a positive view of menโs potential and gives them a fair hearing.
โWe donโt condone violence, but we take the strong philosophical view that itโs in menโs interest to address their violent urges.
โViolent men arenโt having a great time either.โ
Men are referred to EveryMan by police, neighbours, family members and about half refer themselves.
Client services manager Alistair Jones said regardless of how men end up at EveryMan, the program was entirely voluntary.
โWe donโt accept anyone without self-incentive,โ he said.
โThey have to want to be here.
โBut we do find that within one session, most men see the worth of the program.
โWe see their value and give them useful and relevant tools.โ
Mr Aldridge said over the years he has seen the stigma โease a littleโ and the way men have become a little more comfortable with having emotions.
โWeโve chipped away at it over time, but there is still an element of macho,โ he said.
โBut Iโve had men call and say, โSomething really bad nearly happened last nightโ or โMe and my buddy want to come and do your violence prevention programโ so itโs more likely that we can have those conversations today.โ
Mr Aldridge said the program works because it is case-management based, and they stay in touch with the latest research and test their standards against other programs in the country.
If you or someone you know needs help addressing violent urges โ you can call the Menโs Referral Service (1300 766 491).
