How Can I help my Friend or Family Member Experiencing Domestic Violence?

• Make time for your friend or family member when he/she is ready for your support. Do not pressure the person to open up or to tell you more than he/she is comfortable sharing.

• Talk in private.

• Listen. Believe what your friend or family member is telling you.

• Do not judge or blame him/her.

• Express why you are concerned, provide specific examples.

• Acknowledge and validate the feelings he/she has about the relationship and the abusive partner.

• Let your friend or family member know violence is not his/her fault.

• Tell your friend or family member no one deserves to be threatened, intimidated, or abused.

• Support his/her right to make decisions. Although you may want to tell your friend or family member to leave the relationship because you are concerned, it is important he/she is empowered to make his/her own decisions.

• Offer to find information or resources. Educate yourself about relationship violence.

• Let your friend or family member know you will continue to be there if he/she needs more support.

• Keep the information private, do not tell others friends or family members.

• Do not attempt to confront the abusive partner. This could be very dangerous for you and the friend or family member you are concerned about.

Help is available at Whittier Street Health Center. Ask your provider for more information or call 617-989-3027.

If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or SAFELINK, the Massachusetts 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline, at 1-877-785-2020, for assistance.