Step 2 – Support and Care
Refer to immediate and long-term SUPPORT & CARE
Encourage them to seek help
Provide information
Offer resources like local shelters, hotlines, legal aid and where to apply online for protection orders.
Health services
If they experience physical violence, they will likely seek health services, and these providers are favourably positioned to refer them to other services.
Professional support
Gently suggest speaking with a counsellor, therapist, or social worker specialising in trauma and GBV. There are also local support centres and groups.
Other things to remember
Keep their information confidential
Protect the victim’s/survivor’s privacy by not sharing their story without explicit consent.
Don’t gossip or share their story
Even with good intentions, discussing the victim’s/survivor’s experience with others can lead to gossip and further harm. Respect their story and keep it to yourself.
Encourage them to document everything
Suggest that they keep a record of incidents in a safe place, including dates, times, and any evidence, such as photos or messages, in case they decide to take legal action later.
Respect their choices
Let the victim/survivor decide what steps to take next. Support their decisions even if they choose not to report the abuse.
Do follow up
If appropriate, check in with the victim/survivor after your initial conversation to see how they’re doing and if they need further assistance.
Don't promise things you can't deliver
If you’re unsure about a resource or solution, don’t give false hope. It’s better to say, “I’ll find out and get back to you.”