10 Institutions That Offer Support for Victims of Abuse in South Africa
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In South Africa, numerous organizations are dedicated to providing essential support for victims of physical abuse. These institutions offer a range of services, from medical attention and shelter to counselling and legal aid. Here are 10 key organizations that can help:
1. South African Police Service (SAPS)
The SAPS is a critical first point of contact for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. They assist with:
- Medical attention
- Shelter
- Victim counselling
For emergencies, contact SAPS at 10111.
2. People Opposed to Woman Abuse (Powa)
Powa provides comprehensive support for women who have experienced violence, including:
- Phone and in-person counselling
- Temporary shelter
- Legal assistance
Website: Powa
Tel: 011 642 4345
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
3. Childline South Africa
This non-profit organization supports abused children and their families with:
- Free counselling services
- Assistance with physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, behavioural problems, and trafficking
- Legal advice
Website: Childline South Africa
Toll-free helpline: 116
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
4. Child Welfare South Africa
Child Welfare South Africa focuses on:
- Child protection
- Child care
- Family development
- Reporting neglect and child abuse
Website: Child Welfare South Africa
Tel: 074 080 8315
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
5. Families South Africa (Famsa)
Famsa provides counselling and education to support marriages and families, including:
- Help with domestic violence and trauma
- Assistance with divorces and mediation
Website: Famsa
Tel: 011 975 7106/7
6. TEARS Foundation
TEARS Foundation offers:
- Crisis intervention
- Advocacy
- Counselling
- Prevention education services for domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse
Website: TEARS Foundation
Free SMS helpline: 1347355#
Tel: 010 590 5920
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
7. The Trauma Centre
The Trauma Centre provides:
- Trauma counselling
- Violence prevention services
Website: The Trauma Centre
Tel: 021 465 7373
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook and Twitter
8. Thuthuzela Care Centres
Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) are one-stop facilities that aim to:
- Reduce secondary victimisation
- Build cases ready for successful prosecution
- Provide access to information on gender-based violence
Website: Thuthuzela Care Centres
9. Gender-Based Violence Command Centre
This command centre offers a dedicated helpline for victims of gender-based violence.
Helpline: 0800 428 428
10. Halt Elder Abuse Line (Heal)
Heal provides support for elderly people facing abuse with:
- A dedicated helpline
- Email support
Helpline: 0800 003 081
Email: [email protected]
These organizations play a vital role in supporting victims of physical abuse across South Africa, providing essential services to help them recover and seek justice.
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