Know someone who is being abused? Call us.

Here are some ways 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 victims 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 with them. 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.

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BE HONEST: Let the victim know that it’s okay to be afraid and not know what to do. Remind them that the abuse was not their fault and they can’t change their 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 to the victim. 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.