Beyond the Story: Working with Survivors of Domestic Abuse

Beyond the Story: Working with Survivors of Domestic Abuse

A trauma-informed, solution-focused approach to restoring agency and possibility

By Re-Mind Services managed by Family Based Solutions

Date and time

Location

Online

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event.

About this event

  • Event lasts 6 hours 30 minutes

Domestic abuse doesn’t discriminate — and neither should our support.Survivors come from all walks of life. They may be women or men, young or older, speaking out or staying silent. What they often have in common is the weight of their story — and the need to be seen as more than it.

This powerful, practice-focused workshop explores how professionals can support both female and male survivors of domestic abuse with compassion, clarity, and purpose — without retraumatising or reducing them to what they’ve endured.

We move beyond the story, shifting the focus from what happened to what’s strong, what’s possible, and what comes next.

What you’ll explore:

  • How to hold space without needing full disclosure
  • Supporting survivors who are quiet, resistant, or overwhelmed
  • Working with both men and women through a gender-informed lens
  • Using language and questions that build agency and reduce shame
  • How trauma shows up in behaviour — and how to respond
  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy tools that centre safety, choice, and identity
  • Staying hopeful, grounded, and resilient as a practitioner

Who is this for?

This training is suitable for:

  • Domestic abuse practitioners and refuge workers
  • Social workers, youth workers, and family practitioners
  • Mental health and housing staff
  • School staff, counsellors, and community support workers
  • Anyone supporting survivors in their work

Whether you're supporting someone in crisis or walking with them in recovery, this session offers practical tools and a shift in mindset — from problem-solving to possibility-building.

Frequently asked questions

Does this training cover both male and female survivors?

Yes. This session is inclusive and explores how domestic abuse affects people of all genders. We look at the different ways men and women may experience, respond to, and recover from abuse — and how professionals can offer appropriate, compassionate support.

Do I need prior experience working with survivors to attend?

No. The training is suitable for both new and experienced professionals. Whether you’re starting out or looking to refresh your approach, the session offers practical tools and fresh perspectives grounded in real-world practice.

What is Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and how is it used in this context?

SFBT is a strengths-based approach that focuses on what’s working, what’s possible, and what a person wants to move toward. In this training, it’s used to support survivors in rebuilding identity, safety, and control — without needing to retell their trauma.

Is this training trauma-informed?

Yes. The session is grounded in trauma-informed principles, helping you recognise trauma responses, reduce harm, and support recovery through safe, respectful practice.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. All attendees will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes.

Is the session interactive?

Yes. The workshop includes reflection, discussion, and practical tools you can take into your work. You’ll also have space to ask questions and connect with others in the field.

Can I attend if I work in education or housing, not just specialist services?

Absolutely. Survivors of domestic abuse often show up in schools, housing services, healthcare settings, and community spaces. This training helps all professionals respond in a way that’s informed, respectful, and empowering.

Organized by

Family Based Solutions, through their Re-Mind initiative, offers expert training and consultancy services aimed at fostering safer family environments. Our programmes are designed for a wide range of clients, including the Metropolitan Police, NSPCC, educational staff, and social workers. We provide guidance on various aspects, from addressing child-to-parent abuse to supporting victims of domestic abuse, and promoting overall well-being. Join our events to benefit from our extensive experience and commitment to creating positive change within communities.

15% off applied
£38.25
Nov 25 · 1:30 AM PST