You can make a difference.

If you're worried someone is facing domestic, sexual, or gendered abuse, contact Panahghar for 24/7 helpline support and referral advice at 0800 055 6519.

Supporting a survivor

It can be hard to know how to support someone who is experiencing domestic abuse. If you are worried about someone it’s important to learn about abuse and how to support them we are here to help. Remember when supporting someone experiencing abuse, never put yourself in danger.

Warning signs

If you're concerned about someone possibly facing abuse, there are warning signs and red flags to watch for that might indicate they're experiencing mistreatment. These signs could include, but aren't restricted to:

  • Limiting contact and making excuses not to meet which is out of the norm for this individual.

  • Behaviour has changed in settings outside of home such as social meetings, work, school pick ups and drop offs.

  • Looking physically different like looking unwell or unusually stressed

  • Frequent injuries, dressing differently to cover these injuries and making excuses as to how the injuries occurred.

  • Checking phone constantly or getting phone calls and messages frequently from perpetrator.

  • Not able to attend GP appointments on their own. A partner or family member is always with them.

  • Not inviting anyone to their home.

  • Using excuses and justifying and defending the perpetrator.

How can you help?

If you are worried that someone you know may be experiencing abuse, here are some ways you may be able to help:

  • Remember, if someone you know needs immediate help and it is an emergency, please call 999.

  • Listen to them, avoid blame and tell them they are not alone.

  • Give them time and space to talk and express themselves and do not put too much pressure on them to talk more if they are not up to it.

  • Advise them that no one deserves to be treated in the way that they have been treated and nothing will justify the abuser’s behaviour.

  • Be there for them as a friend and allow them to make their own decisions.

  • Avoid telling them to leave the relationship if they are not ready. This is their decision to make.

  • If they are physically hurt, offer to go with them to the hospital or GP.

  • If they choose to report an assault to the police, assist them.

  • Share specialist organisations, like Panahghar, that may be able to help them in their situation.

  • Offer to make a referral to a specialist organisation that could help or support them.

  • Offer your friend to contact you as and when needed.

  • Be sure to look after yourself whilst supporting someone who is being abused and make sure you are safe.

24/7 dedicated multi-lingual support helpline

0800 055 6519

If English is or is not your first language we can help, contact us on 0800 055 651 any time of day, 7 days a week, if you are worried about someone we can offer you advice and support.