Domestic abuse information for friends and family members

If you're worried a friend is experiencing domestic abuse, let them know you've noticed something is wrong. They might not be ready to talk, but try to find quiet times when they can talk if they choose to.

If someone confides in you that they are suffering domestic abuse:

• listen, and take care not to blame them
  
• acknowledge it takes strength to talk to someone about experiencing abuse
  
• give them time to talk, but do not push them to talk if they do not want to
  
• acknowledge they're in a frightening and difficult situation
  
• tell them nobody deserves to be threatened or beaten, despite what the abuser has said
  
• support them as a friend, encourage them to express their feelings, and allow them to make their own decisions
  
• do not tell them to leave the relationship or leave home if they're not ready – that's their decision
  
• ask if they have suffered physical harm and if they have, offer to go with them to a hospital or GP
  
• help them report the assault to the police if they choose to
  
• be ready to provide information about organisations that offer help for people experiencing domestic abuse – see our local directory of services
  
  

For more information and advice about supporting a friend or family member, see I'm worried about someone else - Women’s Aid website.