MEN who are violent in the home are to be offered the chance to change through a groundbreaking new programme starting in Trowbridge next month.

The programme, run by the Splitz Parenting Alone Support Service, is the first voluntary programme for violent abusers in the home to be run in the county.

Splitz manager Fran Lewis said: "The programme aims to challenge shifting responsibility for the violence and looks at self-esteem, jealousy, affairs and the use of alcohol.

"It encourages men to think about the effect of their behaviour on their families.

"If we are to break the cycle of domestic abuse, it is vital to provide services for the perpetrators."

The programme, funded by The Lankelly Foundation and The Henry Smith Charitable Trust, will tackle the topics of physical, emotional and sexual abuse.

Men taking part will also look at the effect their behaviour could have on children in the family and how they can rebuild trust and learn different ways to manage behaviour.

Splitz has been providing support for lone parents in west Wiltshire since 1989.

Ninety per cent of clients using the service are women.

The first course will be held in Salisbury on February 14. The second course is due to be held in Trowbridge in early April.

The course is voluntary and free of charge, but does require a commitment to complete the 30-week programme.

For more information contact Splitz on 0845 6001945, email splitz@splitz.org or visit www.splitz.org