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From Issue: 517 [Read full issue]

Overcoming Your Hesitation to Help

You may suspect abuse is happening to a neighbour, friend or family member, but do not know what to do or how to talk about it. You may worry about making the situation worse, or be concerned about what to do. Here are some concerns you may have about whether you should help:

Points of Concern Points to Consider
You feel it's none of your business It could be a matter of life or death. Violence is everyone's business
You don't know what to say Saying you care and are concerned is a good start
You might make things worse Doing nothing could make things worse
It's not serious enough to involve the police Police are trained to respond and utilize other resources
You are afraid his violence will turn to you or your family Speak to her alone. Let the police know if you receive threats
You think she doesn't really want to leave because she keeps coming back She may not have had the support she needed
You are afraid she will become angry with you Maybe, but she will know you care
You feel that both partners are your friends One friend is being abused and lives in fear
You believe that if she wanted help, she would ask for it She may be too afraid and ashamed to ask for help
You think it is a private matter It isn't when someone is being hurt

Compiled From:
"How You can Identify and Help Women at Risk of Abuse" - Neighbour, Friends and Families

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