Someone tells you

The first ten minutes are about safe response — not extracting the whole story.

1. Listen without judgement. Let the person use their own words.
2. Check immediate safety in a way appropriate to your role.
3. Explain confidentiality honestly. Do not make impossible promises.
4. Do not contact or mediate with family where doing so could increase risk.
5. Record and escalate according to your role, policy and jurisdiction.