Photo by Sydney Sims on Unsplash
A few years ago I did some training with Women's Aid on domestic abuse and it really opened my eyes to way some women are treated by their partner or ex-partner. Although women are the main victims of this dreadful crime, men can also be affected.
Domestic abuse comes in many forms, from physical to emotional abuse whereby intimidation is used to isolate and control the victim. There are not always outward physical signs that abuse is taking place but if you know that someone whether a friend or relative is suffering, it is important to let them know you are there. From experience below are a few tips that I found useful.
1. Never be judgemental. Offer a sympathetic ear and listen, whilst coffee and cake doesn't solve problems, it can be the first step in releasing some of the pent up anger and confusion.
2. Have an open door. A place to escape too and possibly somewhere they can keep some of their possessions if they decide to leave and abusive situation. Even if they decide not to leave their situation, having a safe place to go can mean a lot.
3. Help them to get legal advice and support from one of the domestic violence charities. There are lots to choose from and Women's Aid have a confidential free phone helpline that can provide support 24 hours a day.
Always remember not to put yourself in any danger, although you are only trying to help a friend, the perpetrator will most probably see it as interfering and you could be at risk. Domestic violence is a serious crime, it can shatter the life of its victims, leaving them a shell of their previous self.
If you are a victim of crime then CICA UK can claim from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Association on your behalf.
This is a collaborative post.
Some great tips here I think being non judgmental and supportive to those caught in a domestic abuse situation are really in being there for someone struggling.
ReplyDeleteSuch lovely and important tips - I think keeping an open door is vital because timing can be everything!
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely post and great support for those who aren't sure how to handle a situation if someone comes to them. Good advice
ReplyDeleteThis is such an important subject to highlight and support. I once knew a lady who was helping a family member leave their abusive husband. He followed her all the way from Scotland to Wales but thankfully her helpers shielded her and she broke free of him.
ReplyDeleteSuch an important topic to highlight. I had a friend who spent years with her abuser and it was so hard to see her go through that, trying to provide a safe space should she need it.
ReplyDeleteI had a friend in a violent relationship and the non-judgemental point is so true. I would listen to her and ask her what she thought she needed to do and offer different alternatives, rather than tell her what to do. It was important to me that she knew I would not judge her for her actions and so that she would keep coming back to me for support, rather than thinking she couldn’t because I disagreed with her choices. X
ReplyDeleteThank you for this as to be honest I wouldn't know how to handle the situation but being open minded is something I can do.
ReplyDeleteAn important topic that needs to be more aware of. sadly its something I have been through in the past and support is so important.
ReplyDeleteImportant message here. I won’t know what to do in that situation. Not being judgemental may be hard for me.
ReplyDeleteSome great tips, I suffered domestic abuse when I was younger and I am so glad I eventually got myself and my daughter out of the situation. xx
ReplyDeleteMy mum has been a victim of domestic abuse and it frustrates me no end that she will not accept help. Great tips
ReplyDeleteGreat advice, being non-judgemental is good advice as this can be hard to do!
ReplyDeleteThis is great advice, I wouldn't have known how to help so this is very informative article to write
ReplyDelete