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I’m worried about someone I know

If you are worried about someone, the way you respond matters. You do not need to have all the answers — being a safe, non-judgemental person makes a real difference.

Helpful things to do

  • Listen and believe them.
  • Avoid judgement and do not blame them.
  • Let them make their own decisions — do not demand that they leave immediately.
  • Encourage them to contact a specialist domestic-abuse service.
  • Help them think about their safety, in their own time.
  • Take any immediate danger seriously.

Please avoid

  • Do not confront the suspected abuser.
  • Do not pressure them or give ultimatums.
  • Do not try to investigate or gather evidence yourself.
  • Do not share what they tell you in a way that could put them at risk.

Leaving can be the most dangerous time. Specialist services can help with safety planning. If someone is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services.

If someone may be in immediate danger

Contact your local emergency services. You can also find specialist helplines for Nigeria and the UK.

Find help now

These tools provide information and guidance. They are not professional risk assessments, diagnoses or substitutes for specialist domestic-abuse, medical, legal or emergency support.