I’m worried about someone else

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If you are worried that someone you know is experiencing or is a survivor of domestic abuse or violence, it can feel difficult to know what to do, but you don’t have to be an expert to support a survivor. We have a few tips to help you.

Firstly, if you or someone else is in immediate danger or if you witness abuse, you should always call 999.

Signposting

It may be helpful to know where to signpost a survivor for more support.

The Live Fear Free Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support and guidance about violence against women, domestic abuse, and sexual violence to survivors, concerned others, and professionals.

If you’re worried about a child and unsure what you can do, call the NSPCC on 0808 800 500.

As part of our Ask Me project, Welsh Women’s Aid provide free training and ongoing support that helps community members to start conversations about abuse, know where help is available and know how to give helpful, supportive responses to anyone who shares their experience of abuse. Find out more about Ask Me here.

Looking after yourself

Talking to someone about their experiences of abuse or violence may trigger complex emotions or even painful memories for yourself. Healthy boundaries, self-care, and being aware of your own emotional capacity to support others are important to enable you to give helpful responses to survivors, so make sure you get any support you need. The Live Fear Free Helpline is available for concerned others if you need to talk.

Most domestic violence services have support available and can provide suggestions as to other actions you might take. Go to our local services page to find out more about services in Wales.