If you or someone you know is a victim of violence, there are several organisations and helplines that can help with medical attention, emotional support, counselling, and shelter.
South African Police Service
The police will assist in cases of domestic violence or sexual assault, and can help you access:
- medical attention;
- shelter
- victim counselling.
SAPS emergency number: 10111
National Helplines
- Gender-Based Violence Command Centre
0800 428 428
1207867# (free from any cellphone) - STOP Gender Violence Helpline
0800 150 150
*120*7867# - Halt Elder Abuse Line (Heal) – helpline for elderly people
0800 003 081
E-mail: action@actiononelderabusesa.co.za - Human Trafficking helpline
08000 737 283 (08000 rescue)
082 455 3664
Support Organisations
People Opposed to Woman Abuse (Powa)
Support for women affected by violence, including:
- Counselling (telephonic and in-person)
- Legal support
- Temporary shelter
Website: http://www.powa.co.za
Tel: 011 642 4345
E-mail: info@powa.co.za
Social media: Facebook and Twitter
Childline South Africa
Support for children and families dealing with abuse, trafficking, and behavioural issues.
Website: https://www.childlinesa.org.za/
Toll-free helpline: 116
E-mail: olcadmin@childlinesa.org.za
Social media: Facebook and Twitter
Child Welfare South Africa
Focuses on child protection, family development, and child abuse reporting.
Website: http://childwelfaresa.org.za/
Tel: 074 080 8315
E-mail: info@childwelfaresa.co.za
Social media: Facebook and Twitter
Families South Africa (Famsa)
Provides support for:
- Domestic violence
- Trauma counselling
- Divorce and family mediation
Facebook
Tel: 073 213 3831
E-mail: national@famsa.org.za
Tears Foundation
Assists survivors of:
- Domestic violence
- Sexual assault
- Child sexual abuse
Website: http://www.tears.co.za/
Free SMS helpline: *134*7355#
Tel: 010 590 5920
Email: info@tears.co.za
Social media: Facebook and Twitter
Thuthuzela Care Centres
These are one-stop facilities for victims of sexual violence, offering:
- Medical care
- Counselling
- Legal services
Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs)
Resources
