Over the past 16 days we’ve raised awareness about different forms of abuse. It’s not always easy to talk about, but it’s really important that we do. Because if we don’t talk about it then people might not know where to go for support. And they might not feel able to reach out for help either.
Often the first step to positive change is starting a conversation, so we hope that by highlighting abuse this month we’ve got more people talking.
We’re ending our series by spotlighting healthy relationships. Any kind of relationship, whether it’s a friendship, family connection or one shared with an intimate partner, should enhance our lives.
We know it’s not always easy, because life has a funny way of throwing curve balls our way, but relationships should be based on trust, compassion and kindness. And today we want to shout about that, because we all deserve to be respected by those closest to us.
What are the foundations of a healthy relationship?
Every relationship is different, but most healthy ones are based on some fundamental values that help both people feel happy and secure. Here’s just a few.
- Communicating frequently and often.
- Committing to being there during difficult times.
- Respecting one another and acknowledging boundaries.
- Providing emotional support.
- Trusting each other.
Forming healthy relationships
There are a few things we can all do to build healthy relationships. These include:
- Being honest and open with our feelings and what we need from the relationship.
- Listening to our partners.
- Resolving conflict respectfully.
- Respecting each other’s independence outside of the relationship.
- Acting with kindness.
Healthy relationships are about being there for one another and respecting the other person for who are they. We may not always be our best selves, but we can certainly try to be – not just for ourselves, but our partners too.
Love Respect is an arm of Women’s Aid that focuses on healthy relationships and signs of unhealthy ones. Take a look here.
If you’re a resident and would like to speak to our Community Safety team, call us on 0300 123 1 567. A member of the team will be in touch with you within 24 hours. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak to someone elsewhere, contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
If you’re in immediate danger, please call 999.
