Resources
Translation Resources for Survivors
Below are translated videos detailing the services and resources we offer at Steps to End Domestic Violence. We offer this information in the following languages:
-
Translated esources for people experiencing Intimate Partner Violence
-
-
-
Resources for people experiencing Intimate Partner Violence
-
-
-
-
-
Translation resources made in collaboration with the Vermont Language Justice Project
Resource Library
For Teens and Young Adults
Love is Respect (website) - This site offers 24/7 information, support, and advocacy to young people between the ages of 13 and 26 who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships.
What You Need to Know about Dating Violence: A Teen’s Handbook (download) - This handbook offers guidance on how to recognize dating violence when it is happening in your relationship, as well as on how to support friends who are experiencing violence in their dating relationships.
How to Help A Friend Experiencing Dating Violence (download) - This tip sheet provides information for young people on how to help their peers who are experiencing dating violence.
What is Stalking? (download) - This information sheet offers a definition of stalking, signs to look out for, and information on what to do if you are being stalked.
Breaking Up: A Quick Guide to Leaving a Relationship (download) - This 2-page guide offers information to help you decide if a breakup is right for your relationship, as well as to help you do it in a safe and healthy way.
Respectful Texting (website) - This article offers guidance on what healthy, respectful texting looks like in a relationship, as well as on how to set boundaries that work for you.
Looking for outreach materials like pull-tab flyers, brochures, and handouts? Visit our outreach page! Available in a variety of languages.
Recorded Webinars
Check out our collection of webinars on various topics related to intimate partner violence, violence prevention, and more. Reach out to us to request other topics you’d like to see!
Understanding Power & Control
We will be talking about common dynamics in abusive relationships. Specifically, we will examine what power and control can look like, types of abuse, and the power and control wheel.
The Cycle of Violence
We will be talking about how the cycle of violence plays out in abusive relationships, why people stay in abusive relationships, and how you can support survivors in your community.
Other Community Resources
SafeSpace is a program of the Vermont Network that provides supportive services for LGBTQ+ Vermonters experiencing violence.
The Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is a statewide coalition of domestic and sexual violence programs.
Howard Center provides mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services to children, adults, and families in Chittenden County.
Outright Vermont works to build safe, healthy, and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ youth in Vermont.
Hope Works provides advocacy and supportive services to survivors of sexual violence.
Vermont Legal Aid provides free civil legal advocacy for Vermonters.
Turning Point Center of Chittenden County provides recovery support services in a safe, substance-free environment for individuals on paths to recovery.
Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services offers assistance with Victims Compensation Claims and other resources for victims of crime in Vermont.
Spectrum helps youth make and sustain positive changes through prevention, intervention, and life skills services.
Planned Parenthood is one of the nation’s leading providers of high-quality, affordable health care, and the nation’s largest provider of sex education.
AALV provides interpretation, case management, and other supportive services for New Americans from all parts of the world living in Vermont.
Community Health Centers provide comprehensive health care that is responsive to the physical, cultural, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of their patients.
USCRI Vermont provides supportive services for refugees and immigrants living in Vermont.
Dos and Don’ts of
Supporting Survivors
When They Share Their Story
DO validate their experience and tell them you believe them.
DO empathize with them. This might sound like, “I’m so sorry this happened. That sounds so hard.”
DO express your concern gently and non-judgmentally.
DON’T question or challenge their story, or ask them to share any details they haven’t already offered.
DON’T shame them for their decisions or ask why they haven’t left the relationship.
DON’T say you understand or make it about you. Even if you are a survivor too, everyone’s story can look different. Keep the focus on them and what they need.
Taking Next Steps
DO ask if they want solutions, or just need someone to listen.
DO let them decide whether to contact a domestic violence agency, police, or other support services. Let them know you could help them with that process when they’re ready.
DO take time to better educate yourself about domestic violence.
DO reach out for help if you need someone to talk to — advocates at Steps can support loved ones of survivors, too. Our hotline is available 24/7 at 802-658-1996.
DON’T offer unsolicited advice.
DON’T pressure them into any decision.
DON’T assume you know their situation better than they do, or that you have all the answers they need.
Showing Your Support
DO support them and let them know you’re here for them, even if you disagree with their decisions.
DO accept them and where they are at right now. That might mean accepting if they choose to stay in the relationship.
DO set the boundaries you need to take care of yourself. If you need to take a step back for a moment, that’s okay.
DON’T isolate them further or make them choose between you and their abuser.