Dragonfly workshops have been going for a few years. But what are they like? How much does it cost? Who can attend?
My name’s Andy and I work for The You Trust. I support people living with, and fleeing from, domestic violence and abuse. I’ve been in this role for about five and a half years. I find it very rewarding and it’s a privilege to be a part of people’s journey.
I work in a team of highly motivated and dedicated professional specialists who work tirelessly to help support people. As part of my role, I co-facilitate the Dragonfly Workshops with my colleagues.
- what is abuse?
- why is it hard to leave?
- the effects of domestic violence
- legal definitions
- how you can help
The workshops are perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about domestic violence and how they can help. We initially set the project up to reach people in isolated areas and communities. But it soon became apparent that the need was far greater than first thought.
As of August 2022, we have trained over 3021 champions, and each one has the potential to make a difference in someone’s life. This is done by signposting the individual who is experiencing domestic abuse to the right help.
Dragonfly workshops
From a facilitator’s viewpoint, every workshop is different. Participants will bring their stories, experiences, preconceptions and ideas about what domestic violence is. During the course of the workshop, we explore what creates an abusive relationship; how people can identify the signs, and who to refer to for help.
No one is expected to share their personal experiences but people will often tell their story. I’m amazed at the strength and courage of people we meet that have survived an abusive relationship or marriage. They go on to rebuild their lives and get to a place where they want to help others experiencing what they went through.
Company training
There is an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the workshops. You’re more than welcome to chat with us if you have any questions or if you’ve found the content tough. We value your feedback.
As we say in the Dragonfly Workshops, anyone can be a victim or anyone can be a perpetrator of domestic abuse. Early intervention and education are the only way we are going to make a difference and reduce domestic abuse.
Dragonfly workshops are free to anyone over 18. Bookings can be made through Eventbrite and there are regular dates throughout the year.
The workshops are open to anyone. However, we don’t recommend these for people who are or who have recently experienced domestic abuse. Some of the content can be quite hard hitting and may trigger feelings and emotions. If you or someone you know is or may be in an abusive relationship then call PARAGON for advice and support.
Feedback from recent workshops
Thank you so much for the training you both facilitated on Friday. The content was very hard hitting and very thought provoking. However, I will be recommending this to my colleagues and HR
Thank you so much for delivering a really insightful training this morning – I’ve not had much experience with domestic abuse from a professional point of view so it was really informative
Many thanks for today. The workshop was interesting and valuable for future practice and knowledge of what is currently available. A well delivered session and very informative
Thank you so much for the training you both facilitated on Friday. The content was very hard hitting and very thought provoking. However, I will be recommending this to my colleagues and HR
Thank you so much for delivering a really insightful training this morning – I’ve not had much experience with domestic abuse from a professional point of view so it was really informative
Many thanks for today. The workshop was interesting and valuable for future practice and knowledge of what is currently available. A well delivered session and very informative
