If someone you know has confided you in there is a few basic steps you can take to aid the person.
- Listen to them
- Let them know that you believe them
- Acknowledge that it takes strength to come forward and seek help and assistance
- Validate their feelings- acknowledge that they are in a frightening situation
- Let them know that this is not their fault
- Let them know that there is no excuse for abuse no matter what the perpetrator has told them
- Do not tell them to leave unless they are ready to do so
- Gently encourage them to seek specialist help and support especially around immediate safety planning
- Arm yourself with information for local services
- If they have physical injuries encourage them to seek medical assistance
- Be ready to assist them should they wish to report the abuse to the police
- Be ready to help them plan a managed exit with the aid of specialist domestic abuse support services
- If it is safe to do so offer them the use of your address and/or look after an emergency bag for them should the need arise
- Keep yourself safe, do not offer to speak to the perpetrator
