Bruntwood prizewinner Bindweed at Hope Street Theatre

Winner of the Judges Award at the Manchester Royal Exchange Theatre-based Bruntwood Playwriting Competition, playwright Martha Loader's Bindweed at Hope Street Theatre in Liverpool (October 16-18) is the latest from Merseyside-based Sidehammer Productions.

In a run-down community centre, four men convicted of domestic abuse offences gather each week in a last-chance programme to keep them out of prison. Leading them is Jen, a former police officer with her own secrets and scars.

Offering some of the realities behind the headlines, Bindweed explores not only those who suffer harm, but also those who cause it - and asks whether accountability can ever truly lead to transformation.

Director Lois Crawford said: “This isn't just a play but a conversation we desperately need to be having. Martha's writing is razor-sharp, compassionate, funny and fearless.”

More info and tickets here