• Fear of consequences
• Loyalty or love
• Minimisation as survival
• Normalisation over time

• Focus on behaviour and impact, not labels
• “That sounds frightening” instead of “That’s abuse”
• Let them define their experience

• Fear of community shame or exclusion
• Immigration or visa concerns
• Language barriers
• Distrust of authorities

• Acknowledge these risks without judgement
• Seek specialist services when possible
• Never pressure disclosure within the community

Fear of escalation, loss, or not being believed.

• “I’ll respect your privacy, but I can’t promise silence if someone’s life is in danger.”
• Encourage specialist support rather than isolation

• Offer private, non-recorded conversations
• Share support options discreetly
• Don’t report without consent (unless immediate danger)

• Prioritise safety over performance
• Offer flexibility without requiring disclosure
• Know your safeguarding obligations

• Threats to kill
• Strangulation
• Weapons access
• Stalking or confinement

• Emergency services
• Safeguarding referral
• Urgent specialist intervention

• Constant worry or hypervigilance
• Sleep disruption
• Emotional exhaustion

• Share responsibility with services
• Set realistic boundaries
• Seek your own support if needed