Most survivors of domestic abuse reach out at some point for support from their friends, family members, neighbours, or colleagues (known as informal support). Survivors have said that this support has a huge impact on their experience, particularly if the person listens, is kind and offers practical help.
However, trying to support someone close to you who is experiencing domestic abuse can be hard. People worry that they might offend the person, ‘get it wrong’ or ‘make things worse’, and are unsure how to begin a conversation about their concerns.
A series of research projects conducted by Dr Gregory has established just how important informal supporters can be, and highlighted the need to equip, empower, and support people to offer help.
Alison said: “Because domestic abuse is so common, it is likely that each of us will know someone at some point who finds themselves in an abusive relationship. Most of us will feel uncertain about what to do, uncomfortable, and ill-equipped.
“Writing this handbook was a real passion project for me, not least because I have personal experience of feeling out of my depth when offering informal support.
“My hope is that this resource will give friends, family members, neighbours, and colleagues the information and confidence they need to provide crucial support to the person they care about.”
Alison’s most recent study on this topic was funded by the AXA Research Fund and was supported by Women’s Aid Federation of England, Hollie Gazzard Trust, and Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse.
Alison added: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to translate research findings into such a tangible, and useful resource. And I’m so grateful to all the courageous participants in the research projects that underpin this handbook - it wouldn't exist with them.”
Lisa Johnson, Head of Survivor Services at Women’s Aid, said: “It can be really difficult to know what to do or say when someone bravely discloses that they have experienced domestic abuse; or when you have concerns about someone in your life being abused. The new Friends and Family Handbook provides practical support to those who might be worried, guiding them on potential signs to look out for and ways to help. This will help ensure that individuals are able to give the best support they can to survivors at the time they need it most.
“Women’s Aid would like to thank Dr Alison Gregory for all her hard work on this important project. It will undoubtedly help countless survivors as they begin reaching out for support.”
Read the Friends and Family Handbook.
Help and support
If you need support, you’re not alone. Women’s Aid is here for you. You can reach out to our team for judgement free support via our Live Chat. For other support options, please visit our website - I need help - information and support on domestic abuse.
See also the National Domestic Abuse Helpline (for women), which you can contact on 0808 2000 247 at any time, and Respect Men’s Advice Line (0808 8010327 - Mon–Fri 10am-5pm).