In recent years, the conversation around sexual abuse, and more specifical historical sexual abuse, has made headlines around the world. Whether it's claims against religious organisations, industry influencers, celebrities, or educational institutions - survivors are speaking up and reclaiming their power.
Speaking your truth can be an overwhelming and difficult experience, often leading to a survivor having to relive the trauma dating back years and even decades. Fortunately, a number of organisations have stepped up to make it easier for survivors of sexual abuse to find support, with many groups offering not only counselling but also legal guidance.
If you have been affected by historical sexual abuse at UK boarding schools specifically, or you have any leads, visit journalist Alex Renton's website for more info on what to do.
REPORTING ABUSE
Lifeline
- 0800 150 150
Government GBV Command Centre
- 0800 428 428
- *120*7867#
Rape Crisis
- Phone: 021 447 9762
- WhatsApp: 083 222 5164
- Email: [email protected]
Childline
- 0800 055 555
Human Trafficking Helpline
- 0800 222 777
SA Women Fight Back (SAWFB)
Persons in need of urgent assistance can contact SAWFB on any of the below platforms. Please provide your contact info, the type of assistance needed (legal, counselling, etc.), a brief description of the situation and where you are located.
- Email: [email protected]
- Request assistance on their website: https://www.sawomenfb.co.za/help-requests
- You can also download the MiVoice app, an emergency assist service for abuse victims.
- Visit the SAWFB website for more info on their secure vault service.
Report Abuse of Persons with Disabilities
- SMS “help” (without the quotation marks) to 31531
Report Child Abuse
- SMS “help” (without the quotation marks) to 31022
COUNSELLING SERVICES & SUPPORT
People Opposed Against Woman Abuse (POWA)
Available Mon – Sun from 08:30 to 16:30
- 076 694 5911
TEARS Foundation
- 010 590 5920
- *134*7355#
- [email protected]
- Locate your nearest TEARS centre: https://tears.storefind.mobi/locate.aspx?nogeo=1
MOSAIC (Cape Town)
- 021 761 7585
- [email protected]
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
- 0800 456 789
- [email protected]
Al-Anon Family Groups (Specific to Alcoholism)
- 0861 252 666
- [email protected]
LEGAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT
Legal Resources Centre (LRC)
- Cape Town: 021 879 2398
- Durban: 083 775 8775
- Johannesburg: 011 038 9709
- Makhanda (Eastern Cape): 083 387 8738
Women’s Legal Centre
- Cape Town: 021 424 5660
- Johannesburg: 011 339 1099
- Email: [email protected]
Legal Aid SA
Available Mon – Fri from 07:00 to 19:00
- 0800 110 110
- Please Call Me: 079 835 7179
LawForAll
- Phone: 0860 333 353
- WhatsApp: 063 603 3759
Lawyers Against Abuse – Johannesburg
- 072 031 1840
- [email protected]
Sources: SAWFB | POWA | TEARS Foundation