Offering Support

It can be tough to know how to help a friend, coworker, or loved one who is experiencing domestic violence.

Here are a few ideas:

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• Express concerns

• Listen and validate experiences

• Accept them and where they are at in this relationship

• Work together on a safety plan.

• Take time to better understand domestic violence

• Support their decisions, even if you disagree, and remind them of their power

• Talk to us! We can support those who support survivors

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REMEMBER: VICTIM-BLAMING IS NOT OKAY. THE ABUSER IS THE PROBLEM, NOT THE PERSON EXPERIENCING ABUSE.

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Domestic violence is a complex issue and there is often a lack of easy answers. We can help, and here are some things you can say to someone affected by domestic violence:

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• It’s not your fault

• I believe you

• I’m sorry you are experiencing this

• No one deserves to be abused

• I am concerned for your safety