How to Help Someone I Know

If you know someone that may be in an abusive relationship, you can call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-723-3014 to talk about your concerns.

We have knowledgeable counselors waiting to talk to you, and all calls are confidential.

A Few Words of Guidance:

  • It’s important not to be judgmental if a loved one is experiencing domestic violence. Relationship abuse can be a very isolating experience, and many victims already blame themselves for what’s happening. Having a lifeline to a friend or family member can make all the difference in a person’s ability to break free from domestic violence. Be patient and always offer a listening ear.
  • Use gender neutral language (partner, they, etc) when speaking about the person who is acting abusively. Also, be aware of your own gender and sexuality biases.
  • Remember that leaving an abusive situation can be scary and dangerous. Don’t pressure decisions, and don’t ask blaming questions like: “Why don’t you just break up with them?” Sometimes leaving or pursuing a protection from abuse order can actually increase the threat of injury or death, so never suggest such an action without understanding the situation. Instead, connect the victim with an expert from our hotline.
  • Let the person know they are not alone. An astounding 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men experience physical abuse, sexual violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner. There are also resources available through organizations like Women Against Abuse. We are here to walk alongside survivors on their journey to freedom and healing.
  • Encourage your loved one to call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline (1-866-723-3014) for safety planning, crisis intervention, emergency shelter, and many other services.
  • You can also help them create a safety plan. Read up on safety planning here.
  • One option is to file a Protection From Abuse order – a legal protection for victims that is similar to a restraining order. Our attorneys can help with this process free of charge. Contact our Legal Center at 215-686-7082.
  • We know that it can be frustrating and scary to see a loved one seemingly trapped in an abusive relationship. Be aware of how the situation is making you feel as a bystander, and consider talking to one of our counselors on the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline.

Connect with the experts!

Our hotline counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-734-3014. Request Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline cards by contacting us.

Waa-ipledge-5
Beth_Huffman_headshot_for_website_300x300

Beth Huffman's Story

When a survivor's child was in trouble, Beth Huffman helped organize a press conference to get the story out on behalf of Women Against Abuse's Legal Center.

Read Full Story
Lonnie

Lonnie & Jordan’s Story

The life-saving work that Women Against Abuse achieves each day would not be possible without the support of advocates in the community.

Read Full Story
Senior_woman

Allison’s Story

Allison* cringed at her reflection in the mirror as she gently dabbed concealer over the bruises circling her eye.

Read Full Story
Sheila

Sheila’s Story

Sheila arrived at the Women Against Abuse Emergency Shelter after waking up in a hospital emergency room.

Read Full Story
Untitled design 46

Lucia’s Story

Lucia* came to the Women Against Abuse emergency shelter pregnant and with five children.

Read Full Story
Justine-thumb

Justine’s Story

Justine got to know Eric in college, while working part time at a Virginia-based home improvement store. They began casually dating in 1999, eventually marrying in May of 2006. Looking back, her sister, Lauren, can see the red flags.

Read Full Story
William-spratley

William’s Story

William Spratley flicks through the text messages on his phone until he finds the one he’s been looking for. It’s from his 27-year old daughter, Ameya, and it’s the last words he will ever exchange with her.

Read Full Story
Candace Survivor Story IG Smaller

La historia de Candace

Al pensar en la violencia doméstica, a menudo se piensa en una víctima/sobreviviente adulta. Pero ¿qué sucede con los niños, las niñas y las personas jóvenes adultas que han experimentado abuso o han sentido miedo en sus propios hogares? Candace, quien trabajó como terapeuta en Women Against Abuse, fue testigo de cómo abusaban a su madre durante años y elige contar su historia sobre este aspecto de la violencia doméstica del que poco se habla. A continuación, sus palabras.

Read Full Story
Untitled design 79

Chanda's Story

Chanda is a survivor and advocate for Women Against Abuse. She first shared her story at the 2017 iPledge Campaign press conference.

Read Full Story
Untitled design 11

Candace's Story

When people consider domestic violence (DV), they often think of the adult victim/survivor. But what about the children who have seen or experienced the abuse; the boys, girls and young adults who have been afraid in their own home? Candace, who worked as a therapist at Women Against Abuse, witnessed her mother being abused for many years, is choosing to share her story to shine a light on this little told aspect of DV. These are her words.

Read Full Story

If you or someone you know needs help, call our toll-free 24-hour Hotline:

1.866.723.3014

Sign up for Action Alerts, Updates & Newsletters!