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Family Life Center
24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 386-437-3505 or 1-800-500-1119
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What if someone you know is being abused?
How YOU can respond to Violence
Refer them to a Domestic/ Sexual Violence Center like the Family Life Center or the local Sheriff's Office. Please remember that interfering in an abusive relationship or sheltering a survivor can put YOU and your family in danger.
Believe him/her -- S(he) is probably telling you less than what is really happened
Do not blame him/her for the abuse s(he) is not responsible for it and does not deserve it. Remember that it is difficult to leave an abusive relationship. Click here to find out why some people stay in an abusive relationship.
S(he) needs to tell her/his story in their own time and at their own pace; listen to them and let them know that you care about them and that they are not alone. Talk with them privately about suspicious bruises or fights that you know about.
Validate their feelings --(s)he may feel hurt, angry, ashamed, or trapped. (S)he may love their abuser. Abuse is awful, scary and embarrassing. Feeling "crazy," helpless, and confused is a normal reaction in this terrible situation.
Help him/her make safety plans. Help them find a safe place to go and a safe place to store money and important documents. Let them use your phone if they need to make calls. Agree to call the police when needed. If necessary, designate a code word (s)he can use to indicate when (s)he wants you to call the police. Take care of their children when they ask you to (if you are willing and able.) If appropriate, talk to the children about what they are feeling.
Assault is a crime. If you suspect that a incident of abuse is occurring, call 911.
Keep what (s)he tells you confidential. Do not gossip about what (s)he has told you about being abused. The abuser may hurt your loved one or friend if (s)he hears rumors that (s)he are telling others of the abuse.
If it is safe, make a strong statement against violence in your social circles. A battered partner who hear these statements may be encouraged to find help.
Help her/him seek professional help. Know whom to call. Get additional information by calling the Family Life Center (386) 437-3506 or toll free 1-800-500-1119
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Administration Phone: 386-437-7610
Outreach Office Phone: 386-437-7747
Affordable Treasures Phone: 386-439-2515
Fax 386-437-1243
Mailing Address PO Box 2058 Bunnell, FL 32110
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