Say NO to violence against women and children
Victims are urged to seek professional help.
As the country is preparing for the launch of the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the Reiger Park SAPS-based Victim Support Centre (VEC) said it has a series of activities in the pipeline to raise awareness among residents about gender-based violence and other forms of abuse.
The centre, which boasts four volunteers who offer support to victims of abuse and other crimes, added that it has also streamlined its operation to tackle the likely surge in cases of domestic violence and other crimes during the festive season and beyond.
Morathuwa Phello, a social auxiliary worker at the centre, urges victims of abuse to seek professional help.
The campaign, which raise awareness and calls for the elimination of all forms of abuse, runs between November 25 and December 10, and will this year be observed under the theme: ‘30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children’.
The official event for the 2024 campaign launch will be held on November 25 in the North-West.
According to the South African Government information services, this year’s campaign emphasises addressing the root causes of GBVF, promoting positive masculinity, promoting gender equity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.
At its core, the theme aims to accelerate and amplify multisectoral and whole-of-society accountability.
Where to find help?
• SAPS emergency number: 10111
• People Opposed to Woman Abuse (Powa). Tel: 011 642 4345
• Childline South Africa: Toll-free helpline: 116
• Child Welfare South Africa: Tel: 074 080 8315
• Families South Africa (Famsa): Tel: 011 975 7106/7
• Tears Foundation: Free SMS helpline: *134*7355#. Tel: 010 590 5920
• The Trauma Centre: Tel: 021 465 7373
Helplines
SAPS Emergency: 10111
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre: 0800 428 428
STOP Gender Violence Helpline: 0800 150 150/ *120*7867#
Halt Elder Abuse Line (Heal) – helpline for elderly people: 0800 003 081
Human Trafficking helpline: 08000 737 283 (08000 rescue) / 082 455 3664
Also Read: Famsa weighs in on fight against GBV
