Evaluation of the TaskForce Early Intervention for Family Violence Program (U-Turn)

Abstract

This report presents the evaluation of the U-Turn program, a Victoria-based early intervention program designed for men with co-occurring family violence (FV) and problematic alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. The program, delivered by TaskForce Community Agency, aims to prevent further violence and breaches of Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs) through a 12-week group-based intervention. The evaluation, conducted by the Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre, examined the program’s effectiveness in increasing family safety, promoting behaviour change, and reducing participants' contact with the criminal justice system. Using a mixed-methods approach, the evaluation included surveys, interviews with program participants and affected family members (AFMs), and stakeholder consultations. Findings indicate that U-Turn contributed to reductions in participants' violent and controlling behaviours, increased family safety, and improved compliance with FVIOs. However, some participants demonstrated persistent denial of responsibility and minimisation of abuse. The report provides recommendations for sustaining and improving the program, including the need for a dedicated Family Safety Contact (FSC) worker, expanded partnerships with other service sectors, and further referral pathways for men with complex needs.