ARC Programme jobs and careers

About ARC Programme

The ARC Programme is a South African, faith-based intervention designed to prevent intimate partner violence (IPV), more commonly referred to as gender-based violence (GBV), through an evidence-informed and trauma-sensitive approach. ARC stands for Acceptance, Repentance, and Confession—the foundational pillars of the programme. It operates within a biopsychosocio-spiritual framework, acknowledging the complex interplay of factors contributing to IPV. The programme is inclusive, accommodating male and female perpetrators as well as couples experiencing mutual abuse. The ARC Programme employs the Three-Tenet Intersectional Trajectory Model (TITM) to understand and address the causes of IPV, and to facilitate healing and sustainable behavioural change: 1) Insecure attachment and learning theory: Focuses on early trauma, such as witnessing IPV and/or experiencing child abuse. 2) Adverse situational factors: Addresses substance abuse, depression, jealousy, and stressors such as unemployment. 3) Weak internal and external control mechanisms: Considers factors like low self-esteem, lack of faith, lack of empathy, social disconnection, and ineffective law enforcement. Integrating faith into the remedial strategy provides a platform for clients to feel seen, heard, valued, and empowered. This approach helps detoxify shame and disconnection, fostering a nurturing and safe environment conducive to healing and transformation.