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This information has been provided by Belfast Women’s
Aid.
Throughout this section we use the term 'friend'. The information
provided is also useful to family member, neighbours and workers
in the field. Helping our friends and family live free from
physical abuse is only part of the solution to the problem of
domestic violence. Heightening community awareness and speaking
out about the need to protect victim's rights are critical.
Thousands of women in Ireland are physically and emotionally
abused by their husbands or partners each year. Chances are,
someone you know-your mother, sister, friend, co-worker or neighbour-is
a victim of domestic violence.
Perhaps you feel your friend's problem will "work itself
out". Nothing could be further from the truth. The violence
will not end until someone takes action to stop it.
Your support and encouragement can be of tremendous value to
a friend involved with an abusive partner. You can ease the
isolation and loss of control she may feel by listening to her,
providing her with more information on domestic violence and
helping her to explore her options.
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