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Bystander Intervention
Life Without Violence
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It Starts With YOU
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Together We Can Prevent Violence
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Life Without Violence • It Starts With YOU • Together We Can Prevent Violence •
Bystander intervention is a crucial and increasingly recognized concept in the context of intimate partner violence (IPV). It involves individuals taking an active role in preventing or mitigating instances of IPV, even when they are not directly involved. Bystanders can play a significant role in stopping the cycle of abuse by recognizing warning signs, offering support to victims, or intervening when they witness abusive behavior. This proactive approach not only creates a safer environment for victims but also sends a powerful message that IPV will not be tolerated in our community. Bystander intervention programs and awareness campaigns are essential tools in raising public consciousness about the issue, fostering empathy, and empowering individuals to take action when they encounter situations involving intimate partner violence.
Bystander Intervention: TALK!
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For telling me. It takes a lot of courage and bravery to share.
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How you can help? (Research how you can support and offer resources for them ahead of time if you have the chance They may not know what organizations, resources and support are out there!)
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To what they really need and listen to what they are willing to share. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted, give them your full attention and listen actively.
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Often times it takes more than one conversation. Continue to support this individual as much as you can!
Bystander Intervention: CARE!
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Offer food, snacks or coffee to the person you are concerned about, start a group activity and ask the person you are concern about if they would like to play, ask the person you are concerned about if they have seen something you are looking for, pretend you and the person you are concerned about forgot you had to be somewhere or do something.
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Ask the person you are concerned about directly: Do you need help? Are you okay? Do you want me to stay and wait with you? Do you want to leave with me?
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Enlist the friends of the person you are concerned about to help, ask someone to go with you to check on the person you are concerned about, ask an adult to intervene.
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Is there anything I can do to support you? Would you like me to stay with you? Would you like help finding and connecting to recourses?
Why Doesn’t Everyone Get Involved?
The bystander effect is real, it can be hard to intervene. When you better understand why others may hold back, you can learn to overcome these obstacles and help a survivor in need.
