If you think someone you know is or has been experiencing domestic violence, there are lots of ways you can help them.
People’s reactions to experiencing domestic violence can vary; they may be afraid, angry or have no outward reaction at all. They might even act in ways that seem unusual to you, even laughing at seemingly inappropriate times or trivialising what has happened to them.
Disclosures can come in many forms; it could be something said jokingly, a story that someone starts to tell then stops and says it doesn't matter, or it could be a question. You are not expected to be a professional counsellor; however how someone responds to a first disclosure can be really important. It can take time for a person to decide what they want to do and how they want to move forward.
Think
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
- Finding a safe space. If possible, try and find somewhere they feel safe. If this isn't possible and they are on campus they can call security on 020 7919 7105 or our campus support officers on 020 7919 7284. Campus support officers works out of hours as a first point of contact for absolutely anything, seven days a week 6pm to 6am.
- Domestic Violence is a crime of power and control. The most important thing is to respond in a way that maximizes their choice and control over what happens next. You can simply ask them what they need or want. They might not make the same decision you would; however, only they can decide what is best for them. You can help them explore options, but avoid telling them what they should do.
· Domestic violence, also called domestic abuse, can include emotional, psychological, physical, financial and sexual abuse in couple relationships or between family members. Find out how to recognise the signs and where someone can get help.
Talk
- Listen. Take the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help. These six active listening tips might help you support them.
- Thank the person for the disclosure and acknowledge that you believe them.
- Give options. When they have finished talking ask them if they are ok to talk through some possible options and next steps. Remember, it is important that they decide what they want to do.
- Goldsmiths Wellbeing Team. The wellbeing team are available for advice and guidance for specific issues and for ongoing wellbeing support for students. They can support you if you have been accused. Appointments can be booked through the Student Wellbeing Service by contacting wellbeing@gold.ac.uk
Report
- Reporting to the police. If they are thinking of reporting to the police, rape crisis have produced a useful list of things to think about.
- Reporting the incident anonymously. They can call crime stoppers at any point on 0800 555 111 or use their online form.
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using the Goldsmith’s Report and Support system. They can choose to do this anonymously or They can request support by filling in the form with your contact details.
- University Procedure. If they choose to report a member of staff or a student by naming them in their report, there are procedures which set out the actions the college may take. This may include carrying out conduct investigations.
Remember
- They might not want to report to the police or the college. There are a lot of reasons why someone may choose not to report domestic violence.
- They might be concerned that people won’t believe them or may not identify what occurred as a sexual assault
- They may be concerned who else might be informed.
- They may have fear of or confusion about the criminal justice system or what happens if you report it to the university.
- Let them know that you believe them and support their decisions.
- Remind them that no one, regardless of relationship or status, has the right to hurt them and that no matter what, it is not their fault that this occurred.
- Connect them with resources that can help them understand what happens if you report to the police and or the university.
Get Support
- Read about the support is available to someone experiencing domestic violence
- Take care of yourself, you too can access student and/or staff wellbeing services for support
- Rape Crisis provides further information on supporting a survivor.