Good Practice Guidelines

  1. Confidentiality is paramount unless there are concerns about a child, young person or vulnerable adult – explain this to people.
  2. Victims often expect to receive a negative response to their situation – don’t make assumptions about them.
  3. Listen, believe, reassure and take what is said seriously
  4. Provide information about options but never make choices for people – they will know the level of danger better than you.
  5. Use non-threatening, open questions.
  6. Obtain permission to share information or approach other agencies unless there are concerns related to Point 1 above.
  7. Establish safe contact telephone numbers/addresses.
  8. Never give out details to anyone else without the person’s permission.
  9. Never act as a go-between, between victim and perpetrator.
  10. Always allow time for the person to talk and express their feelings.