Many survivors are hesistant to contact a Survivor Advocate, fearing that this will be yet another stranger in a vast and disjointed system. Or worse, they worry that the advocate will make decisions and take action that the survivor isn’t prepared for, such as launching them into stressful legal actions.

This is an understandable fear, but it stops survivors from getting assistance and support when they need it most. Trained in trauma response, an advocate can serve as a guide, helper, or a listening ear. Here are 10 ways an advocate can help… and one thing an advocate would never do.

10 Things a Survivor Advocate Will Do

1. Talk factually, informatively, and without pressure about a survivor’s options.
2. Connect a survivor with the help they choose, such as contacting agencies or making appointments.
3. Help a survivor with recording or gathering evidence.
4. Accompany a survivor to appointments of all kinds, so you don’t have to go to an unfamiliar place alone.
5. Help explain a survivor’s situation with the professional and medical staff at appointments.
6. Be a supportive and compassionate listener.
7. Use their trauma training to talk with a survivor in a validating and healing way.
8. Help a survivor with other aspects of their experience that aren’t about appointments, such as coming up with ways to be safe at home or school.
9. Keep survivor info private and confidential.
10. Support the survivor’s decisions.

1 Thing a Survivor Advocate Will NEVER Do

1. They will never pressure a survivor into making a decision the survivor doesn’t want.

If you’re feeling inundated with programs and agencies, or just overwhelmed by your situation, a Survivor Advocate can help!