Worried about a friend? Good friends are everything. But sometimes our closest friends can be suffering in silence

With 1 in 4 women experiencing domestic abuse as well as many men, trans and non-binary gendered people, it is likely we know at least one person who has been affected in some way.

Support is available from specialist services and the police, but many survivors are likely to talk to a friend or family member first – but would you know how to help?

If you spot any of these warning signs, your friend may be experiencing domestic abuse in their relationship.

Control

Does your friend’s partner call, text or check up on them a lot?

Isolation

Have you noticed you get to see less of your friend? Are they seeing less of their friends and family too? Maybe they make excuses about why they can’t meet up, or you get the sense that their partner is taking over their life.

Manipulation

Does your friend have to check with their partner before making a decision? Do they often seem worried about their partner’s reaction?

Pressure

Have you noticed your friend behaving out of character – dressing, acting, or speaking differently? Do you think they feel pressured by their partner to look or behave a certain way?

Jealousy

Does your friend’s partner get jealous for no reason? Do you see them change their behaviour to avoid being accused of cheating on them?

Fear

Is your friend treading on eggshells to avoid arguments with their partner? Have you ever got the sense that your friend is a bit afraid of them?

If you’re worried about someone, trust your instincts and get some support from a professional helpline

While calling a helpline might seem like a big step, talking it through, will mean you’ll get the best advice and be in a better place to support them safely. you can choose to share as much or as little as you like. You don’t have to give your real name and you can call us anonymously. 

For women needing help – call Juno’s 24 hour domestic abuse helpline 0808 800 0340

Juno Women’s Aid help women and children living in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Speak to a female Helpline advisor any time, any day of the year. If you don’t get through the first time, leave your name, number and a safe time to call you back.

You can also email them on helpline@junowomensaid.org.uk. 

For men needing help – call Equation’s helpline 0800 9956 999

Here at Equation, we support men living in Nottinghamshire. We’re here Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm excluding bank holidays. A 24/7 confidential answerphone service is available outside these times. You can also email us at helpline@equation.org.uk.  

Donate

No matter how much time, money or resources you can afford to give, you’ll be helping us to educate, spread awareness, and support more people to get the help they need.