You Can Help Prevent Domestic Abuse

Abusers will do anything possible to retain power and control over their victims. Routinely, this involves convincing a victim he or she is not being abused. It’s normal for victims to wonder if they are being abused. Are you being abused? Are you unsure? Take a few minutes to complete this assessment and you will have more clarity.

>>Am I being abused?

Although awareness of domestic violence has been growing in our culture, it continues to be the source of many myths and misunderstandings. Here are some of the most important facts about domestic violence.

>> What is domestic violence?

If you are in an abusive situation and are not able or ready to leave, it’s important to think about how to keep yourself safe. A safety plan can help lower risk and optimize safety during and after the relationship has ended.

>> How do I develop a safety plan?

Your call will be taken by an individual who wants to help you. He or she will ask questions to better understand your situation and answer any questions you have. We can help you find the specific resources you need, which may include coming to our shelter.

>> What happens when I call?

You can be abused and not even know it.  And abuse of any kind is never your fault.  Abusers use physical, sexual, digital, emotional, verbal, spiritual or financial control or combinations of these to gain and maintain control over their victims.

>>6 different types of abuse

When noticing signs of domestic abuse it is important to know how to help and support someone.  Starting the conversation and guiding them to resources is crucial to their next steps.

>>Download our printable how you can help sheet here

Domestic violence is a concern in every workplace.  Each year domestic violence costs American businesses $1.8 billion in lost productivity and 74% of victims report that their abuser has harassed them on their job.  Employers who address the issue can provide real help to victims and prevent associated risks,

>> Download our printable information on the impact to the workplace

How can you tell if an employee or a co-worker is a victim of domestic violence? No two cases are identical, but there are red flags that frequently signal that someone is being exposed to abuse.

>> Download our printable information to learn how to recognize the signs

If you believe that one of your employees or co-workers may be a victim, approach them and start a private conversation with them.  Communicate your concern and let them know you are here for them if they need support and say what you have noticed to be different.

>>Download our printable information on how to talk to an employee

There are a variety of legal requirements that obligate employers to address and respond to the needs of domestic violence victims.  Training, resources and policies are vital steps to protecting the workplace and your employees.

>>Download our printable information on how to best prepare your business 

Primary prevention is any action, strategy or policy that works to stop domestic violence from occurring in the first place. Primary prevention seeks to reduce the overall likelihood that anyone will become a victim or perpetrator of domestic violence by creating conditions that make violence less likely to occur.

>>Download our printable information on primary prevention for leaders

The first step in protecting employees from domestic violence and being able to provide support to victims is to create a formal policy and accompanying procedures.

>>Download our information on best practices for implementing a policy for your work place

Domestic violence should be a concern for every religious leader. Domestic violence victims are more likely to disclose the abuse to someone in their faith community than they are to seek help from law enforcement. 81% of pastors say they would take action to reduce domestic violence if they had more training to address the issue.

>>Download our printable information on domestic violence an the church

No two cases are identical but several red flags signal someone is experiencing abuse. While one behavior may or may not be a sign of abuse, it is important to look for patterns of behavior that have caused the victim to change how they normally behave.

>>Download our printable information on recognizing the signs

If you suspect someone is experiencing abuse, their safety and the safety of their children is the most important thing. Be discreet. Speak with the victim privately, away from their partner and children. Understand it may be difficult and frightening to talk about the abuse they are experiencing.

>>Download our printable information on how to help someone in your church

Creating a culture of safety and support through awareness and prevention efforts speaks volumes to victims and survivors of abuse saying, this is a safe place– and warns abusers that abuse will not be tolerated.

>>Download our printable information on how to protect your congregation

Primary prevention is any action, strategy or policy that works to stop domestic violence from occurring in the first place.  Primary prevention seeks to reduce the overall likelihood that anyone will become a victim or perpetrator of domestic violence by creating conditions that make violence less likely to occur.

>>Download our printable information on primary prevention