Reaching out to someone you trust can be a helpful first step.
If something harmful or distressing has happened and you’re not ready to make a formal report, you may simply want to talk to a friend, peer or colleague.
This section is for anyone who:
- Has experienced something harmful or distressing
- Doesn’t feel ready to make a formal report
- Wants to talk to someone they trust, like a peer, friend or colleague.
You don’t need to disclose anything you’re not comfortable sharing. You’re in control of what you say, when you say it and what happens next.
Starting the conversation
Talking to someone you trust can help you feel less alone. It may also help with processing or making sense of what has happened.
You have the right to take things at your own pace, without pressure to take further action.
Here are some gentle ways to start the conversation:
- ‘Can I talk to you about something that’s been bothering me?’
- ‘I’m not ready to report anything formally, but I need someone to listen.’
- ‘Something happened that I’m trying to process. I trust you. Can we talk?’
- ‘I don’t need advice right now, just someone to hear me out.’
You can also let the person know what kind of support you need. For example:
- Just listening, no advice
- Help finding resources
- Help writing down what happened, in case you want to report later
- Helping you think about what would make you feel safe right now
- Checking in with you regularly
Next steps (now or later)
You do not have to do anything else, but if you ever want to, pathways are available.