Supporting someone who has experienced sexual harassment can be daunting especially when it is someone close to you and you are worried about saying or doing "the wrong thing." You don't have to be an expert to support someone but there are some really simple things you can do that will help.
Looking out for Friends and Peers
- Assess their safety: Are they or others in imminent danger? If so, escalate to the emergency services by contacting 999
- Medical needs: Do they have medical needs that require attention?
- Listen: If someone discloses an experience of discrimination to you, listening to what they tell you with compassion and empathy can be incredibly helpful
- Believe: Rather than asking a lot of questions, just let them know that you believe them and will support them as best as you can. Ensure you are non-judgemental, reassuring and supportive. Use phrases such as:
“I believe you. / It took a lot of courage to tell me about this.”
“It’s not your fault.”
“You are not alone. / I care about you and am here to listen or help in any way I can.”
“I’m sorry this happened”
- Reassure and give options: Remind them that it is not their fault. Give them options about what they want to do - you can simply ask them what they need or want
- Encouraging independence: Help your friend develop their own response plan and support them to steer their decisions if possible
- Respecting their choices: Supporting their choices and decisions, even if you don't agree with them, while respecting their autonomy
- Setting boundaries: Setting boundaries to protect your own emotional well-being and preventing burnout from over-involvement
- Mutual support: Being there for each other, sharing experiences, and offering encouragement
Further support resource for you and referral information can be found on the It has happened to me and Support resources page.
You can read more about the University's Stance on Harassment and Sexual Misconduct here.