Providing reassurance and moral support
Being a support network for people who share your life will mean that they can turn to you for encouragement and support. Having a good support network is a vital tool in maintaining mental health and well-being.
As a family member, a friend or colleague you can offer support during the good and bad times.
Family
You may be supporting a family member you get on well with as they will be more likely to open up to you. Be willing to offer time and advice and be that source of support.
Friends
As a friend, you can be a great source of support as they often know you well from shared experiences.
Colleagues
As a workmate, you can be a great source of help about issues in and outside of the workplace.
Help children to understand
Children are more aware than you think. Even if you think they have been shielded from violence and have not seen the abuse, they probably know there is unease and tension in the home.
You can help children understand by:
- Spending time with them
- Telling them that you care and will support them
- Letting them talk about how they feel
- Listening to what they have to say and staying calm
- Trying to be honest if they ask questions and answer with simple responses
- Telling them it is not their fault and that violence is not okay
Get in touch
If you are concerned for yourself or someone else, our local, confidential helpline will advise anyone seeking help with domestic abuse. This includes relatives, friends and work colleagues as well as those who are causing harm.
Speak to us on 0800 69 49 999. Our phone line is available 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.