After confirming that a gender-based violence (GBV) victim has experienced abuse, the appropriate way to help involves a sensitive, survivor-centered approach focused on safety, support, and confidentiality:

Immediate Support and Safety

• Introduce yourself clearly, stating your role and how you can help, to build trust.
• Provide practical support such as offering water, a private and safe place to sit, and tissues.
• Ensure the conversation happens in a safe and confidential environment, away from others who might pose a risk.
• Do not pressure the survivor to share more details than they are comfortable with; listen without judgment and stay calm.
• Address urgent needs like medical care, clothing, or shelter if necessary to restore dignity and safety.
• Help the survivor identify someone they trust to support or translate if needed.
• Work with the survivor to develop a safety plan, including ways to stay safe if they remain in or leave the abusive environment (e.g., changing locks, notifying schools, having emergency contacts).

Emotional Support and Validation

• Affirm that the abuse is not their fault and that their feelings are valid. Use supportive statements such as “You’re not alone,” “I believe you,” and “You deserve to be safe.”
• Avoid blaming or judging the survivor for their situation or decisions. Respect their choices even if they do not immediately leave the abusive situation.
• Reassure them that they have the right to feel safe and supported.

Referral and Follow-Up

• Provide accurate, up-to-date information about available services such as medical care, psychosocial support, legal assistance, and shelter options.
• Refer the survivor to specialized GBV services or protection focal points if available.
• Maintain confidentiality strictly, only sharing information with the survivor’s consent and according to local protocols.
• Encourage the survivor to access professional help but avoid trying to manage or counsel them yourself beyond initial support.
• Reflect on your own emotional well-being after the interaction and seek support as needed to manage secondary trauma.

Summary

Helping a GBV victim involves listening empathetically, ensuring their immediate safety and dignity, validating their experience without judgment, providing practical and emotional support, and connecting them to professional services while respecting their autonomy and confidentiality