You can make a difference.
Things to Do
- Listen – without judging, rejecting, or blaming someone for their decisions.
- Believe – understanding that domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of culture, education, and economic circumstances, and that abusers often appear to be very nice people.
- Recognize – your role is not to “rescue” but to “help.”
- Educate – about domestic violence and that everyone has choices.
- Encourage – the person to call the Willow Center 24/7 Crisis and Support Hotline (585-222-SAFE) for confidential help any time day or night.
- Support – by not abandoning the person.
Words to Say
- I am sorry this is happening to you.
- I care about you and I know talking about this is hard.
- This is not your fault.
- You don’t deserve to be treated this way.
- You have the right to be safe.
Questions to Ask
- Is someone hurting you?
- Did someone hurt you?
- Are you afraid of your partner?
- Do you dread going home?
- What do you need to be safe right now?
- How can I support you?
