Listen and empathize

Maintain their confidentiality and refrain from trying to find out information about them

Do not judge or advise

Never give the impression that you don’t believe their story (even if you know their partner)

Suggest they contact professionals like Daya

Offer to drive them to appointments and offer support after difficult appointments 

Be available to take their calls while also holding your own boundaries and taking care of yourself

Offer to hold on to a bag of important items (documents, money, etc.) in case they need to flee in an emergency

Help them create a safety plan for themselves and their children

Tell them as often as you can that they do not deserve to be abused