Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a persistent issue affecting millions in South Africa. It takes various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, disproportionately targeting women and children. Addressing GBV requires a united effort to provide accessible GBV support services in South Africa and create awareness.
This guide outlines key GBV support services in South Africa, how to access them, and what survivors need to know about seeking help.
Understanding Gender-Based Violence
GBV refers to violence directed at individuals based on their gender. It is rooted in unequal power dynamics, harmful cultural norms, and systemic discrimination. In South Africa, the statistics are alarming, with one in five women reportedly experiencing physical violence at the hands of their partners. GBV is often underreported due to stigma, fear, or lack of resources, making it even more critical for survivors to know about GBV support services in South Africa.
Key GBV Support Services in South Africa
South Africa has a range of services to assist survivors of GBV. These GBV support services in South Africa include helplines, shelters, and counselling services.
1. GBV Command Centre (GBVCC)
The GBV Command Centre operates a 24/7 toll-free helpline: 0800 428 428 or via USSD by dialling 1207867#. It provides:
- Immediate emotional support.
- Information on legal rights.
- Referrals to shelters and counselling services.
Survivors can also send an SMS to 31531 or use the Skype option (gbvcchelpline) for accessibility, especially for the hearing impaired. This is one of the most accessible GBV support services in South Africa for immediate help.
2. Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs)
Thuthuzela Care Centres, located in hospitals, provide integrated GBV support services in South Africa for survivors of sexual violence. Services include:
- Medical care (including post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV).
- Psychosocial support.
- Assistance with opening police cases.
- Legal advice.
TCCs aim to minimize secondary trauma by providing all necessary services in one location.
3. Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) and NGOs
Tears Foundation
The Tears Foundation offers survivors access to a database of care facilities. Its 24-hour helpline, 1347355#, is an essential resource for locating nearby GBV support services in South Africa.
People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA)
POWA provides holistic GBV support services in South Africa, including:
- Counselling.
- Legal advice.
- Shelters for abused women and children.
Their toll-free number is 0800 150 150, and they also engage in advocacy and education campaigns.
Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust
Specializing in supporting survivors of sexual violence, Rape Crisis offers:
- 24-hour helpline support: 021 447 9762.
- Court support for survivors navigating the legal process.
- Training workshops for community empowerment.
These organizations play a significant role in providing GBV support services in South Africa.
4. Police Services and Victim Empowerment Centres
Local police stations have Victim Empowerment Centres (VECs) where survivors can report crimes, receive counselling, and access referrals to other GBV support services in South Africa. Survivors are encouraged to:
- Report incidents promptly to preserve evidence.
- Request a female officer if preferred.
- Use the services of a Victim Advocate, available in many police stations.
5. Legal Assistance
Several organizations provide free or affordable legal aid to GBV survivors:
- Legal Aid South Africa: Offers free legal representation for survivors who meet financial criteria. Their toll-free number is 0800 110 110.
- ProBono.Org: Connects survivors with attorneys who offer free legal services.
These legal resources are an integral part of GBV support services in South Africa, helping survivors navigate the justice system.
Find more here: Gender-Based Violence Command Centre
Steps to Take If You Are a GBV Survivor
If you or someone you know is a victim of GBV, consider the following steps to access GBV support services in South Africa:
1. Seek Immediate Safety
Find a safe space away from the abuser. Contact the GBV Command Centre or local shelters if you need a place to stay.
2. Preserve Evidence
For sexual assault cases, avoid bathing or washing your clothes until evidence is collected by medical professionals.
3. Report the Incident
Report the incident to your nearest police station. Request a case number and follow up on the investigation process.
4. Access Medical Care
Seek medical attention promptly for treatment of injuries, HIV prevention, or pregnancy prevention. Thuthuzela Care Centres are excellent resources for medical and psychological GBV support services in South Africa.
5. Get Counselling
Reach out to counselling services to process the trauma and rebuild your mental health. Organizations like POWA and Rape Crisis provide comprehensive GBV support services in South Africa tailored to survivors’ needs.
Community Involvement in Combating GBV
The fight against GBV requires everyone’s involvement. Here’s how communities can help survivors access GBV support services in South Africa:
- Educate and Empower: Spread awareness about GBV and the rights of survivors. Schools, workplaces, and community centres can host workshops.
- Support Survivors: Offer empathy and direct survivors to relevant GBV support services in South Africa without judgment.
- Challenge Harmful Norms: Address societal norms that perpetuate violence, such as toxic masculinity and victim-blaming.
- Report Abuse: If you witness or suspect abuse, report it to authorities or helplines.
Challenges in GBV Support Services in South Africa
Despite the availability of GBV support services in South Africa, challenges persist:
- Limited Resources: Many shelters and counselling centres are underfunded and overwhelmed.
- Stigma: Survivors often face judgment or disbelief, deterring them from seeking help.
- Access Issues: Rural areas lack adequate facilities, making it difficult for survivors to find GBV support services in South Africa.
To address these challenges, it is crucial to allocate more resources, improve accessibility, and promote community-based interventions.
Future of GBV Support Services in South Africa
Efforts to combat GBV are ongoing, with government and civil society driving several initiatives:
- Implementation of stricter laws against perpetrators.
- Increased funding for GBV support services in South Africa.
- Expansion of Thuthuzela Care Centres and other support services.
Check also: Applying for a Protection Order: Protect Yourself from GBV
Gender-Based Violence is a grave concern in South Africa, but survivors are not alone. Numerous GBV support services in South Africa provide the care, protection, and legal support needed to rebuild lives. By accessing these services and standing together as a community, we can combat GBV and create a safer society for all.
