Helping Someone You Know

Family, friends, and co-workers can be critical links to help a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault. A timely intervention from a loved one, co-worker or friend can help a victim to obtain the services they need to make the difference in their being safe, healthy and successful.

If you know someone who is a victim of domestic abuse or violence, here are some things you can do to help:

• Listen. Sometimes a victim just needs someone to hear them.
• Don’t judge. The victim does not need to hear, ‘if it was me, I wouldn’t put up with that’ or ‘I would leave.’ It may be more complicated than you realize and they may be in real fear of the consequences of their actions.
• Be supportive. Let the victim know they are not alone. There are services and agencies to help. Offer to sit with them while they call the Safe Futures hotline, or offer to bring them to Safe Futures for a counseling appointment. Your support may make the difference in whether or not they seek help.
• Get answers. As a family member, friend or colleague you can contact Safe Futures and speak with a counselor on how you can help the person you are concerned about. We’re here to help.