The Live Fear Free helpline, managed by Welsh Women’s Aid, provides support for anyone who has experienced, or is experiencing, violence against women, domestic abuse, or sexual violence, or for anyone concerned about a friend or relative. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
A team of highly trained advocates manage the helpline, offering specialised, compassionate, confidential advice. Helpline advocates are there for you, no matter what.
In this blog, helpline volunteers share common misconceptions about the service, and offer information to dispel these myths.
All personal details have been changed to protect identities.
“I didn’t think anyone would believe me as my story seemed so farfetched”.
One of the most important aspects of an advocate’s role is to create a safe space for survivors to share their experiences, knowing they can share as much or as little as they feel comfortable with.
It’s not uncommon to feel concerns about sharing a traumatic story, but advocates will always listen, and believe. Callers will always be heard and offered the support or advice they need in a non-judgemental manner.
“As my partner doesn’t hit me, I didn’t think this would be treated as a case of domestic abuse”.
Domestic abuse and violence can take many forms, whether psychological, such as coercive or financial control or physical.
There is no ‘box to tick’ when it comes to an abusive experience. No matter what kind of abuse someone has endured, they can access support, information, or advice from Live Fear Free.
“The abuse I suffered was years ago and I didn’t think anything could be done about it now”.
Some people may feel ready to ask for help straight away, while others may need some time to process and be ready to seek support. There is no ‘right time’.
No matter when someone experienced domestic abuse or violence, the helpline is always available for advice and support.
“I have problems accessing other services and sometimes have a problem communicating in English. I hadn’t realised that the Helpline had instant access to an interpreter for my needs to be met.”
Language shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing vital support, which is why Live Fear Free offers help in all languages. Using Language line, Live Fear Free provides support, information and advice in the language the caller/contactor is most comfortable speaking. Just provide a phone number and the call will be returned with an interpreter.
“I was scared that my identity would be revealed but I was reassured that I could remain anonymous unless there was a concern regarding my welfare or safeguarding”.
The helpline is strictly confidential, meaning any information someone shares with an advocate will be kept private. When it comes to next steps, advocates want to empower people to help themselves, so may talk through options, but there is no obligation to decide over the phone.
Safety is the number one priority. Whilst all calls are confidential, there is one exception, if a life is in immediate danger or if there is a child at risk. In these circumstances, the authorities would be informed to ensure the safety of the at-risk person. You will be well informed and supported if this intervention is necessary.
“I didn’t know that the helpline is not just for survivors of domestic abuse”.
Our advocates are trained to support people in several ways, no matter what form of violence, abuse or harassment they have experienced. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual violence, stalking and harassment. No one must ‘qualify’ to seek support.
“I didn’t know that there was always someone there to talk to, even at night or on weekends”.
If you have experienced domestic abuse, sexual violence, or are worried about a friend or relative who is experiencing any form of violence or abuse, you can call Live Fear Free anytime.
It’s free, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The experienced helpline advocates guarantee you will be met with a friendly, supportive and understanding response, and can discuss your concerns and provide help, support and information.
Abuse can happen to anyone and is never your fault. The Live Fear Free Helpline will be there for you whenever you need them.
Speak to Live Fear Free for 24/7 free confidential support and advice.
Call 0808 80 10 800
Text 0786 007 7333
Email [email protected]