FERNWOOD FITNESS - PULSE eMagazine - Issue#11 - Flipbook - Page 38
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How to Support Someone
Experiencing Violence
If you suspect someone you know is enduring
abuse, your support can be vital. Here are some
key ways to help:
Emergency Assistance: If immediate danger
is present, call 000 right away.
Listen and Believe: Validate their feelings
without judgement. Listening can provide
crucial emotional support.
Respect Their Autonomy: Allow them to
make their own decisions at their own pace.
Forcing a solution can sometimes exacerbate
feelings of entrapment.
Offer Practical Support: This might include
assisting with transport, childcare, or finding
a safe place.
Access Professional Help: Encourage them
to seek advice from professionals, whether
through GP services, work EAPs or
specialised support organisations. For
instance, in Australia, 1800RESPECT
(1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14)
provide confidential support.
It is important to remember that family, domestic
and sexual violence is not confined solely to
physical harm. Emotional, psychological and
economic abuses are equally damaging and
require attention and understanding.
May is Domestic and Family Violence
(DFV) Prevention Month
Each May marks Domestic and Family Violence
(DFV) Prevention Month. This annual initiative
aims to raise awareness of domestic and family
violence and coercive control, highlight the
support services available, and send a clear
message that violence in our communities will
not be tolerated.
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