Supporting someone experiencing domestic violence
Someone may choose to tell you about their experiences of domestic violence, either in your professional capacity (police officer, nurse, doctor etc.) or because you are their friend or family member. The key thing to remember if someone discloses abuse to you is to stay calm, try not to look shocked, and above all to believe them and be non-judgemental. It is not your place to decide if they are telling the truth or not.
Focus on their safety and that of their children, you can help to find information about specific support agencies and help them with talking about their experiences. You can offer support and reassurance in a non-judgemental and safe environment.
You should never assume that someone else will take care of domestic violence/abuse issues – you may be that person’s first and only contact.
It is not your role to encourage someone to leave their abusive relationship (in fact leaving a relationship is a point of increased risk) or to take any other particular course of action. This could lead to problems – such as increased danger for them and their children. Be aware of your own safety in the situation as well as the person, and make sure you think about where you are and what you say.
In this section you will find: