A disclosure of domestic violence often occurs within a survivor’s personal network, which can include family, friends, colleagues, or neighbours.
If someone discloses that they are being abused, here some dos and don’ts for supporting them.
Ways to respond to a disclosure:
- Listen actively and let them share their experiences without any interruptions
- Let them know they are not to blame for their experiences
- Validate their decision to disclose what has happened to them.
Ways NOT to respond to a disclosure:
- Try to “fix” the problem
- Tell them what to do
- Force them to share information that they are not ready to share. Instead, allow them to decide what information they feel comfortable and ready to share.
Source: Safe and Equal. Responding to disclosures.
