Friends and Whanau
What are some things I can say and do?
Any little thing you do can help.
I didn't know what else to do so I said I'd take the children for an hour or two.
I decided to keep on saying hello and asking how she was even though she didn't say much. I had a feeling something was going on and she might need me one day.
I don't mind if you call me or come over whatever the time, I mean it, my door's always open.
Give support not advice.
Listen.
Take violence seriously.
Challenge the behaviour not the person.
Think about safety.
Don't intervene in a violent situation or when people are angry or drunk.
Choose a quiet time.
Ask:
- Are you OK?
- Is someone hurting you?
- Are you scared to go home?
- Is there anything I can do?
- Do you feel safe at home?
Say:
- It's not OK your kids are scared of you
- It's not your fault someone is hurting you
- When you're ready I'm here
- It's not OK that you are being hurt
Do:
- Keep in touch
- Call to say Hi
- Offer to babysit
- Listen
- Be there
- Keep the door open
- Offer a safe place to go
- Find out about family violence