Five things You Can Do Today to Support Someone Experiencing Domestic Violence

Every day, people in our communities are living through the trauma of domestic violence and
often in silence. While it’s easy to feel powerless, the truth is that you can make a massive
difference, even today. Support doesn’t require grand gestures or expert knowledge. Often,
the most powerful actions are grounded in empathy, respect, and presence.

At The Purple Arrow, we believe that change starts with people and that includes you. Here
are five meaningful ways you can personally support someone experiencing domestic
violence.

Listen Without Judgment
If someone opens up to you, don’t rush to fix it. Just listen. Your role is not to have all the
answers, but to be a safe, steady presence. Avoid asking “why don’t you just leave?”
Instead, say something like “Thank you for trusting me. I’m here for you.” Your calm, non-
judgmental support could be one of their lifelines

Learn the Warning Signs
Abuse isn’t always physical. It can look like constant criticism, financial control, isolation from
friends, or intense jealousy. The more you understand about the different forms of abuse
such as emotional, financial, psychological abuse, the better equipped you are to offer help.
Awareness can lead to action.

Offer Practical Help
Abuse often comes with barriers: no money, no transport, no access to documents. Can you
offer a ride to an appointment? Look after their pet for a few days? Store a “go bag” at your
house? These simple gestures can empower someone to take the next step safely.

Respect Their Decisions
Leaving isn’t always safe and it isn’t always possible right away. You might want them to
escape now, but pressuring them can backfire. Trust that they know their situation best.
Instead of saying “you should leave,” try: “What do you need? How can I help you feel safe?”

Help Them Create a Safety Plan
If they’re not ready or able to leave, support them in planning for when they are. A safety plan might include copies of documents, emergency contacts, or where to go if things escalate. It’s about preparation, not pressure. (You can download our free printable safety
checklist here).

Why This Matters
Domestic violence thrives in silence. Your support and your voice might be the one thing that reminds someone they are not alone, not crazy, and not to blame. It might be the thing that saves their life.

Don’t underestimate the power of being present, informed, and compassionate.