What Can You Do If You Know Or Suspect Someone Is Being Abused?

If someone you know is being abused you need to first address any immediate safety needs. If the victim is currently in danger ask him/her if he/she wants you to call the police or an ambulance. Once a victim’s immediate safety needs have been met, the most important thing you can do is listen. It is important to relay to the victim that “No one deserves to be abused”, and that he/she is not alone. Do not tell the victim what to do or place any negative blame on his/her actions. Let the victim know she is not responsible for the abuse, and that only the abuser can stop the abusive behavior.