We collaborated with Dr Alison Gregory, Research Fellow at the University of Bristol, in 2019 to assist is with writing and producing this informative document and we would like to thank Alison for all her support. The guide is aimed at people who have a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague who they think may be in a relationship with a partner or an adult family member who has been abusive towards them.
‘Domestic abuse’ or ‘domestic violence’ are terms often used to describe abuse from one partner towards another or from one adult family member towards another, but it can be difficult to know exactly what they mean and, as the person outside of the relationship, it can be difficult to know whether or not you should be concerned.
This guide will explain what domestic abuse is, what things you can do to help the situation and how you can look after yourself. People supporting a friend, relative, neighbour or colleague who is experiencing domestic abuse sometimes feel that they have no right to get support themselves because they are not the person being abused. They are, however, providing really valuable support and, because they care about the people in the situation, they are likely to be impacted too. If you look after yourself, you will be in a better position to support the person who is experiencing the abuse.
The guide contains:
What is domestic abuse?
Why is it important to support someone who is experiencing domestic abuse?
How can I tell if a person I know is experiencing domestic abuse?
What can I do to support the person I know?
Ways in which the situation may impact on you
What can I do to help myself?
Plus both local and national sign positing to local support teams and networks.
Read the guide or download the guide here: https://holliegazzard.org/friends-and-family-advice/