(250) 763 1040

It can be very difficult to know how to support someone who is being abused, especially if she is not ready to end the relationship. Our staff are available to offer a listening ear and helpful advice to friends and family members of abused women.  If you know a woman who is being abused, you can:

• Tell her that you are there for her
• Continue to stand by her and be there for her. Do not turn your back on a woman who is being abused, as this may increase her isolation and put her at greater risk
• Set gentle but firm limits on what you are willing to listen to or expose yourself to
• Tell her that you believe her and reassure her she is not to blame
• Help her to explore her options and encourage her to seek help and healthy sources of support
• Help to protect any children that may be witnessing or experiencing abuse by speaking with child protection authorities. Any citizen who is aware that a child is living in an abusive home is legally required to make a report to child protection and can do so by calling 310-1234.

You may also wish to visit the website:

www.womanabuseprevention.com/html/how_to_help.html

for more information on how to help someone who is being abused.