Know someone who is being abused? Call us.
1-800-927-4673
Read below to learn how you can support a victim of domestic violence:
KNOW THE NUMBERS:
Give victims emergency numbers, including 911 and MSCFV Hotline 1-800-927-4673 (or the number to the local domestic violence agency).
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SAFE SPACE:
Provide a safe and nurturing environment for the victim to speak to you.
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CONFIDENTIALITY:
Assure the victim that everything they share is confidential unless you believe they are in danger of suicide or homicide or if a child is in danger of neglect and/or abuse.
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LISTEN:
Listen to the victim as they speak and maintain eye contact. Allow the victim to cry if they want to, reminding them that crying is cleansing for their soul.
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SAFETY PLANNING:
Assist the survivor with developing a safety plan.​
​BE HONEST:
Let the victim know that it’s okay to be afraid and not know what to do. Emphasize that the abuse was not the victim's fault and they can’t change the abuser or their behavior(s).
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EMPATHY:
Be empathetic towards the victim and their situation. NEVER ask the victim why they stayed for as long as they did or why they hadn’t left before.
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NON-JUDGEMENTAL:
Be nonjudgmental in your responses. Do not share your personal biases.
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NETWORK OF SUPPORT:
Encourage the victim to develop a social support system to include family, friends, coworkers, and others they can trust.
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SEEK HELP:
Encourage the victim to reach out to MSCFV.