According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, researchers have found that more than one-third of women and one in 12 men have experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetime. That is too many anyone would agree. If you are thinking about what you can do to help then you must read on the 10 steps given below. These steps would help you to stop domestic violence in your community.
1. Know the signs:-
2. Do not ignore it:-
Police officers hear the same thing from witnesses again and again. If you hear/see/perceived domestic violence then do not ignore it rather than get involved. If you hear your neighbours engaged in a violent situation then call the police. It could save a life.
3. Lend an ear:-
If someone ever confides in you they are experiencing domestic violence, listen without judgment. You must believe in what they are telling you and ask about how you can help or see other ways to help a survivor.
4. Be available:-
If someone you know is thinking about leaving or is in fear the violence will escalate then you must be ready to help. You should always keep your phone with you and the ringer on. You must make sure you have gas in your car and discuss an escape plan or meeting place ahead of time.
5. Know the number to a nearby shelter:-
You never know who might need refuge in a hurry. You must keep your numbers to shelters (find local shelter numbers here) or load the National Domestic Violence Hotline in your phone.
6. Check in regularly:-
If a loved one or friend is in danger then you must reach out regularly to ensure about his or her safety.
7. Be a resource :-
If someone is experiencing violence then he/ she may not be able to research shelters, escape plans or set up necessities like bank accounts and cell phones while living with his or her abuser. Offer to do the legwork to help ease stress and keep things confidential. There are certain items that a survivor may need to take with them.
8. Write it down:-
You must document every incident you witness and include the date, time, location, injuries and circumstances. Such information could be very useful in later police reports and court cases, both criminal and civil.
9. Get the word out:-
You must assist a local shelter or domestic violence organization in their efforts to raise awareness in your community. Or you can use your personal connections in order to start a grassroots campaign. You should organize talks at your workplace wellness fair.
10. Using power:-
Use your power as a consumer and refuse to support the culture perpetuated in music, movies, television, games and the media that glorifies violence, particularly against women.
In most of the cases the best help for any physically and emotionally abused women would be your friendship to them. They might feel alone in their situation and that person might feel that there is no way out. You can help that person by being a good friend and an encourager throughout the ordeal or you can also help them to leave the situation before it is too late. And at last but not the least important part would be your availability whenever if she needs you. If you have much patience then you must provide courage and the stamina to help a friend to be out of an abusive relationship. She will undoubtedly be grateful to you forever. Being a good friend to some women who are abused could even be the difference between life and death.