Frequently asked questions

Project CARA is an evidence-based model for effective reduction of domestic abuse offending through a coordinated community response, including:

• Clear eligibility criteria and risk assessment
• Provider involvement from initial contact and ongoing oversight, including scrutiny panel for case review with police
• In-depth training on programme delivery, risk, and process for raising safeguarding concerns
• Two-part workshop delivery that takes offenders on a journey of self-reflection and awareness to support the identification and motivation of their own risks and needs
• Victim contact for signposting, responding to concerns and needs, risk review, and feedback of victim experience to support programme effectiveness
• Skilled facilitation creating a peer-challenge, peer-learning environment

The new two-tier framework sets out clear guidance from the Home Office on eligibility requirements for issuing a Community Diversion for CARA. The guidance can be found here.

An evaluated intervention, skilled facilitation, and in-depth training responds to and encourages honesty and accountability as a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach.

Emphasis on relevant signposting explored throughout workshops and encouraging help-seeking behaviour.

Offenders indicate CARA influences their awareness of and motivation to address behaviour including the use of self-management tools and strategies.

Safeguarding and support provided through victim contact and clear guidance for police and commissioned organisations ensure CARA remains a safe and effective intervention.  Many victims report that they do not want to separate, they just want the abuse to stop. Before the introduction of CARA, the only options for the victim were to support a prosecution or to accept that no further action could be taken. CARA provides victims with a third option which has the potential for a more positive outcome.

Victim contact between workshops supports enhanced risk management and provides an opportunity to signpost victims to appropriate safeguarding and support services.

CARA also improves offender accountability for abusive behaviour. Any future arrests and court proceedings should consider an offender’s compliance and engagement with the CARA intervention, which can be used as relevant history.

Adapted delivery of CARA for female offenders responds to unique vulnerabilities & supports engagement.

Structured workshops and skilled facilitation build an environment that fosters openness and disclosures, which is impossible to replicate online. Peer challenge and peer learning encourage further personalisation and reflection through a shared learning environment adhering to existing Department of Public Prosecution guidance.

Commissioned organisations would be selected in a tendering process. As part of the replication model, Hampton Trust provides a commissioning framework to the local Police and Crime Commissioner.

Typically, CARA is commissioned and funded by the local Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the police force area.

The timeline of commissioning to established delivery of CARA can vary, though mobilisation typically takes 3 months. A clear commissioning process and commitment to mobilisation plans can support an efficient rollout of CARA.