Stepping Up is a relationships and parenting programme jointly commissioned by Greater Manchester Probation Service and the Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit. The project is delivered by TLC: Talk, Listen, Change; a national relationships charity based in Trafford.

Launched in July 2023, the 6-month pilot works across four areas of Greater Manchester – Oldham, Rochdale, Tameside, and Stockport – to support young men on probation in their roles as fathers, sons, or brothers, to either establish new or rebuild existing family relationships.

The programme aims to support people to understand and lessen the impact of their own negative choices and behaviours on both themselves and their family, and to support them and their family to move forward and out of the Criminal Justice System. The ultimate goal is to break the cycle of younger generations following family members into the Criminal Justice System. ​

Feedback from staff and attendees has been positive. Many of those being supported by Stepping Up are embracing the opportunity to engage with the programme. One young man was asked how he felt his first session had gone: “I wouldn’t change anything, it was perfect!”

Where there are barriers to accessing Stepping Up the team will work to find solutions, such as facilitating communications and travelling to meet the men close to their homes. The programme is voluntary but can count towards the person’s Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.

The Stepping Up team are now visiting local Probation Offices to meet with staff and people who may be suitable for the programme. To find out more contact Laurie Beach, Stepping Up Programme Manager (Lauriebeach@talklistenchange.org.uk), or to make a referral email tlc.referrals@talklistenchange.cjsm.net.

Article posted on: 04/10/2023 11:10am