We Say Something – Gendered Disrespect & Violence
Knowing what to say or do when someone discloses an experience of violence or disrespect, can be challenging and confronting if you are not trained in how to do so. It’s important to know that you do not need to be an expert to respond with compassion and to listen in the first instance.
Below you will find some key points and resources to assist you in providing an initial response to a club member, friend or family.
Immediate support or response for an individual
It can take a lot of courage to disclose an experience of domestic, family or sexual violence. Responding sensitively and with compassion can be an important aspect of supporting the individual who has made the disclosure.
Key points to support someone:
- Listen
- Believe
- Reassure
- Respect
“I’m so sorry this happened to you.” “This is not your fault.”
“You’re not alone. I’m here for you and I’m glad you told me.”
Read more from 1800Respect on how to respond to support someone.
Respect Victoria also has some great advice on responding to a disclosure.
Local support services for individuals:
- Centre Against Sexual Assault Central Victoria (Business hours ): 5441 0430 (after Hours): 1800 806 292
- No to Violence (Men’s Referral Service 24 hours, 7 days per week)): 1300 766 491
- Centre for Non-Violence (toll-free in the Bendigo region – Business Hours): 1800 884 292
- The Orange Door (Loddon region – Business Hours): 1800 512 359
- Thorne Harbour LGBTQI+ support: 1800 889 887
- Safe Steps (24 hours, 7 days per week): 1800 015 188
- 1800 RESPECT (24 hours, 7 days per week): 1800 737 732
- InTouch (supporting migrant and refugee women), Business Hours: 1800 755 988
- Sexual Assault Crisis Line (24 hours, 7 days per week): 1800 806 292
Remember – If someone is in immediate danger, please contact 000
Immediate response as a club
If an incident of violence or disrespect has occurred within your sporting club environment, there are a number of steps you should take immediately and options to get advice on the process to follow.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of the individual is a priority
- Reporting – is there a need to contact police?
- Report or seek advice from your Integrity Officer at your State or National Sporting organisation
- Report or seek advice from Sports Integrity Australia – Safer Sport Hotline 1800 161 361
Contact us
If you can’t find what you’re looking for or need further support, please contact Sports Focus.