About the NFF Course: “Working Together to End Abuse"

A free, self-paced course for anyone who wants to better understand, recognize, and respond to intimate partner violence.

Working Together to End Abuse is a free, self-paced online course created by Neighbours, Friends and Families. Designed for anyone concerned about intimate partner violence (IPV), this course offers support, guidance, and actionable information, whether you’re seeking support for yourself or someone you care about.

This training empowers everyday people—neighbours, friends, family members, and coworkers to recognize the signs of abuse and take informed, compassionate steps to provide support and referrals. It builds on the belief that through strong community connections and knowledge about the warning signs of IPV, we can all play a role in keeping people and their children safe.

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What You’ll Learn

The Working Together to End Abuse course is divided into four lessons that build your knowledge and confidence to recognize and respond to intimate partner violence (IPV). 

Each lesson is designed to be accessible and empowering, providing information that will help you take meaningful action to support your neighbours, friends and families, safely and compassionately. Here's what you'll explore:

Understanding Intimate Partner Violence

Learn what intimate partner violence is and how it impacts people of all genders. You'll gain insight into the many forms that violence can take, both physical and non-physical.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Explore the warning signs that someone may be experiencing IPV or using abusive behaviours and learn to identify when situations are escalating toward serious harm or even death.

Coercive Control and Systemic Barriers

Deepen your understanding of coercive control, an often invisible yet dangerous form of abuse. Learn how factors like gender, identity, and systemic discrimination can increase vulnerability and make it harder for some individuals to access help.

Supporting Someone Who May Be Experiencing Abuse

Discover practical tools for responding when you know or suspect someone is experiencing IPV. Learn about isolation, how to overcome your hesitation to help, and how to have supportive conversations using a clear, trauma-informed framework. You’ll also explore resources, safety planning, and the Power & Control Wheel to guide your approach.

FAQs and Testimonials

Who should take this course? 

Anyone (community members, friends, family, co-workers) who wants to be better equipped to recognize and respond to intimate partner violence. 

Is this course only for professionals? 
No. This training is designed for the general public and does not require a professional background. 

Can victims/survivors take the course? 
Yes. Victims/Survivors and those with lived experience are welcome to take the course. Please be aware that some content may be emotionally difficult or even triggering. We encourage participants to take breaks, practice self-care, and seek support if needed. Your well-being is a priority. 

Can those who use or have used abusive behaviours benefit from taking the course? 
Yes. People who are reflecting on their own behaviour or seeking to change can benefit from this course. It offers insight into the impact of abuse, how power and control show up in relationships, and how to take steps toward accountability and safer, healthier relationships. 

How long is the course? 
The course takes about one hour to complete, but you can pause and return to it anytime. 

Can I take the course more than once? 
Yes! You are welcome to revisit the course at any time. Many participants find it helpful to review the material again, especially when supporting someone in a difficult situation. 

What happens after I complete the course? 
You'll be invited to complete a short course evaluation survey. Once submitted, you’ll be redirected to another page to enter your name and email address to receive a Certificate of Completion via email. 

I did not receive my Certificate of Completion. How do I get it? 
Your certificate will be emailed to you within 15 minutes of completing the training. If you don’t see it in your inbox, please check your junk or spam folder. If it’s not there either, email us at nff@uwo.ca and we’ll assist you in receiving it. 

I took the course, and I am interested in learning more. Are there other free courses related to IPV or GBV that I can take? Yes, the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children (CREVAWC), home to NFF, has a number of other free online courses and trainings available:  

There are also always learning opportunities available

Feedback from Course Participants:

“I learned so much. That training provides so much information that I had no idea about. I think it would be beneficial if trainings like this were mandatory for all students, like even in high school, then they would be better equipped when situations come up.” 

“I feel more confident to support people who are experiencing intimate partner of violence.” 

“Excellent program! Your use of a combination of theory AND practical examples (including the demonstrations) was very, very helpful. Thank you.” 

“This training was very interesting! I feel like I have a better understanding of how to apply to knowledge I have about intimate partner violence to situations with friends and family members.” 

“This training was great, love the format, the information, etc. I have a good baseline of knowledge of IPV.”

“As a survivor of IPV, thank you. My friends and roommates didn't know how to help me and I'm so glad resources like this are being created.” 

“Thank you for developing this tool. I run into these situations periodically, and it's so hard to know what to do. You've given me tools to work with. Thank you!