Empowerment Is The Core Of Advocacy
adapted from "The Empowerment Wheel" developed by the Domestic Violence Project, Inc., in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and based on
the "Power and Control and Equality Wheel" developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, Minnesota
In the empowerment model, a woman seeking help is assumed to be a basically healthy person who needs understanding, concrete
information, support and resources to make changes. An advocate should consiously reinforce the expectation that a battered woman
can -- and will -- take charge of her own life.
Respect Confidentiality
- All discussions must occur in private, without other family members present. This is essential to building trust and ensuring
her safety.
Believe Her And Affirm Her Experiences
- Listen to her and acknowledge her feelings. Let her know she is not alone; many women have similar experiences.
Acknowledge The Injustice
- The violence perpetrated against her is not her fault. No one deserves to be abused.
Respect Her Autonomy
- Respect her right to make decisions in her own life, when she is ready. She is the expert on her life.
Help Her Plan For Future Safety
- What has she tried in the past to keep herself safe? Is it working? Does she have a place to go if she needs to escape?
Promote Access To Community Services
- Know the resources in your community. Is there a hotline, shelter or non-residential program for battered women?
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