Note taking

You are not required to record information from any disclosures you receive about domestic and family violence, but taking notes can be helpful when supporting someone.

If you decide to record information, remember:

• Ask permission to do so from the person seeking advice
• It must be anonymous. Do not include things like names, ages, addresses, or other information that may reveal someone’s identity
• Store this information safely and privately
• In some circumstances you will be required to share information with authorities like the police.

Be objective

Only record the information you have been told. Make sure that you are not making assumptions or judgements on the situation, or the people involved.

For example:

Do write: ‘She still lives with partner that uses violence, which may place children at risk of harm.’

Do not write: ‘She is irresponsible and still lives with abusive husband. She clearly does not care about her children.’