Domestic abuse - it's happening to someone I know
Domestic violence, also called domestic abuse, can happen to anyone, regardless of gender. It can include emotional, psychological, physical, financial and sexual abuse in couple relationships (current or previous) or between family members. It can be an individual incident, or a pattern of incidents, but always involves one person having control and power over another.
THINK
- Are they in immediate danger? If they are in immediate danger or seriously injured, you can either call our EDI Helpline on +256 702087737 or 192, or contact the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit security team on extension 133 for emergency help.
- Find a safe space. If an incident has just happened, you can try and find somewhere they feel safe. If this isn't possible and they are scared or fearful, you can contact the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit security team on extension 133.
TALK
- Listen. Just taking the time to listen to someone and talk about what has happened can help. These six active listening tips might help you support them (Published on Oct 4, 2015 Based on the Samaritans guidelines for active listening).
- Give options. When they have finished talking ask them if they are okay to talk through some possible options and next steps.
- Anti-Bullying and Harassment Advisors can talk through the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.
REPORT
- In an emergency, you can report to EDI by calling 192 and requesting an ambulance or report to the police. There is an option for silent support if talking will put you in danger.
- If it is not an emergency, you can speak to your doctor/healthcare professional or attend any local police station.
- Report and Support. Students and staff can report an incident using MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can make a report with contact details. If you choose to report with contact details your submission will be reviewed by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team who will contact you to talk through the options.
GET SUPPORT
If you know someone who is the target of domestic violence, there are a variety of support options available for them. It's important you take care of yourself too - you can also access student and/or staff wellbeing services for support.
MRCUganda Support for Staff and Students
- Only connect staff counselling service. A trained counsellor can meet with you to discuss any issue and all issues will be treated confidentially.
- HR Department. If you are a member of staff or manager, your HR department will be able to identify the support that’s available to you.
- Anti-Bullying and Harassment Advisors can talk through the MRCUganda's procedures, how to make a complaint and what support is available, in confidence.