Support for others

Support for family, friends & professionals

The West Cork Women Against Violence Project also offer support to family members, friends and to professionals who get disclosures of domestic abuse. It can be extremely difficult for individuals and family members to hear disclosures of abuse. The woman may have requested that confidentiality is maintained, which can put pressure on them. When a woman chooses to remain in an Allegedly Abusive situation it can be very frustrating for people who are trying to help her.

The most important thing you can do is to be there for your friend.

  1. Learn to be a good listener.
  2. Don’t blame your friend.
  3. Don’t criticise your friend however frustrating you find her behaviour; she needs your support.
  4. Encourage your friend to contact us and suggest she takes some additional telephone numbers for when we are not open (e.g. Women’s Aid: Free phone 1800 341 900)

Also remember:

  1. To look after yourself
  2. If you feel the situation is getting worse or too much for you to handle, we are here for you as well.

In the situation where a Young Person under the age of 18 years contacts the service for support, we would assist them in referring them to Childline.