Breaking the Silence: Protecting Women and Girls from Domestic Violence

Domestic violence thrives in silence—but communities have the power to interrupt harm. For women and girls, violence may appear as control over finances, online pressure, or fear that leads to isolation. Prevention begins by believing survivors, offering choices—not ultimatums—and connecting them to support.

Trauma-Informed Care

Our approach is grounded in respect, dignity, and the understanding that healing happens differently for everyone.

Prioritizing safety and dignity

Respecting survivor autonomy and choice

Honoring cultural and spiritual strengths

Listening without judgment

Supporting survivors at their own pace

"When a survivor shares their story, the most powerful response is listening—and helping them explore options safely."

Why Prevention Matters

Domestic violence is preventable. Communities can create conditions where violence is less likely to occur and survivors have strong networks of support.

Teaching healthy relationships early

Building awareness and skills in youth before harmful patterns form

Strengthening economic stability

Financial independence and security reduce vulnerability to abuse

Encouraging safe bystander action

Empowering community members to recognize and respond to warning signs

Building networks of care

Connecting mentors, educators, faith leaders, and neighbors in support

Domestic Violence Prevention & Response for Women and Girls

A comprehensive training program designed to equip community members with knowledge, skills, and resources to prevent and respond to domestic violence.

This program supports safety, dignity, and empowerment and does not replace legal or clinical services.

Who Should Attend

WOCOTM staff & volunteers

Peer counselors

Educators

Faith and community leaders

Parents and caregivers

Youth mentors

Training Structure & Outcomes

Delivery Options

Live Workshop
3–4 hours
Interactive, in-person or virtual session for immediate learning and practice
Hybrid Learning
6 micro-modules (20–30 min each)
Self-paced modules with optional live check-ins and support
Train-the-Trainer
1 full day
Prepare facilitators to deliver the program in their own communities

Learning Outcomes
Participants will be able to:

• Define domestic violence and recognize its many forms

• Identify warning signs and risk factors affecting women and girls

• Respond safely using survivor-centered, trauma-informed practices

• Support safety planning and referrals

• Prevent harm through education, accountability, and community norms

Training Modules

Six comprehensive modules designed for thorough understanding and practical application

Module 1 – Understanding Domestic Violence
30–40 minutes
What DV Can Look Like
Physical: hitting, restraining, choking
Emotional / Psychological: threats, intimidation, humiliation
Sexual: non-consensual acts, coercion
Economic: restricting access to money or work
Digital: monitoring, harassment, image-based abuse

Key Points

• Domestic violence is rooted in power and control

• Leaving can increase risk — timing and safety planning matter

Activity
Myths vs. Facts interactive discussion

Module 2 – Impact on Women & Girls
25–30 minutes
Understanding the Impact
Short- and long-term health effects, including stress, anxiety,
and trauma-related responses
Educational disruption and long-term economic impacts
Intergenerational effects on children and youth development

Protective Factors
Supportive adults, strong cultural identity, financial literacy,
and meaningful connection to school and community

Module 3 – Warning Signs & Assessment
30–40 minutes
Possible Indicators
Sudden isolation, frequent injuries, or constant check-ins with a partner
Fearfulness, shame, or drastic changes in behavior
For youth girls: absenteeism, withdrawal, or online abuse
Note: Indicators vary by culture and context. Patterns over time
are more meaningful than isolated signs.

Activity
Scenario spotting exercise

Module 4 – Survivor-Centered Response
40–50 minutes
SAFE Model
Support: Listen without judgment and offer calm, steady presence
Affirm: Validate experiences and respect autonomy
Focus: Center safety, choices, and survivor-led decision-making
Engage: Connect resources with consent and transparency

Language Tips

Say: “You’re not alone. I believe you.”

Avoid: Blame, pressure, ultimatums, or sharing information without
permission (except where legally required).

Practice
Role-play scenarios using survivor-centered responses (adult and youth-appropriate)

Module 5 – Safety Planning & Referrals
30–40 minutes
Safety Planning Basics
Identify trusted contacts and safe places
Create code words and plan for digital safety
Prepare important documents and emergency funds

Referral Map (Customize Locally)
Domestic violence shelters and hotlines
Legal aid services and protective orders
Healthcare providers, counseling services, and school counselors

If there is immediate danger: contact emergency services right away.

Module 6 – Prevention & Community Action
25–30 minutes
Prevention & Action Areas
Healthy relationship education
Bystander skills and shared accountability
Youth leadership development and mentoring
Economic empowerment and housing stability

Commitment
Each participant commits to one prevention action they will take
within the next 30 days to support safety and community wellbeing.

Resources