Principle 4: Create the right environment for the client to talk
There are certain things advisers can do to make it easier for clients to talk about the abuse they are experiencing and to let them know that they are there to support them, including creating a safe environment.
•Remember that they will need to speak to you when their abuser is not around. Ask if it is a convenient time for them to talk and if it is safe for them to do so, or if another time would be better.
•Would they prefer a telephone or video call, or would they like to make an appointment to speak with you face-to-face?
•Is there a code word that the client would like to use to indicate when they are not able to speak?
•Would the client like you to pretend to be someone else if the telephone was to be suddenly taken by the abuser?
•If leaving the client a message/sending a text, check it is safe to do so.