What are the signs?

Does the person you are concerned about:

• Often make excuses for injuries and justifies his behaviour.
• Seem to be suffering from low self-esteem, when they are usually confident.
• Constantly check in with their partner.
• Seem overly worried about pleasing their partner.
• Never have money on hand.
• Skip out on work, school, or social outings for no clear reason.
• Wear clothes that don’t fit the season, like long sleeves in summer to cover bruises.
• Wear more make up than usual to hide marks to the face.

How can you help?

Often women suffering from domestic abuse are reluctant to acknowledge there is a problem. Their self worth may be at an all time low and they feel there is no way out of the situation.

Listening and providing support as a friend is the most important way you can help. Believe her and validate what she tells you.

Other ways you can help:

• Take a look at these organisations who can offer help. Share them with your friend.
• Allow her to make her own decisions and don’t judge her.
• Attend appointments with her such as Doctors, Solicitors and Police.
• Help her to plan leaving her abuser, if that’s what she wants to do.