THE Merewest Community Foundation has taken a stand against the rising tide of GBV by highlighting critical helplines, shelters and support services available to victims in the Durban South area. The organisation said they hope the resource will help survivors find immediate assistance while encouraging community members to speak out when witnessing abuse.

Also read: Youth take a stand against GBV and say enough is enough

Premilla Deonath, chairperson of MCF, said the foundation felt compelled to act after watching the unending trauma women, children and the vulnerable experienced in the community.

“Too many people are suffering in silence. We want survivors to know that help exists, that they have options and that our community stands ready to support them. Information saves lives, this campaign is about getting the right numbers into the right hands,” said Deonath.

When we look at GBV, it is important to be reminded of that there are various types of abuse, not just physical.

Types of abuse:

• Physical violence: Intentional bodily harm.
• Sexual violence: Rape, assault and any non-consensual act.
• Psychological/Emotional violence: Verbal abuse, manipulation and degrading behaviour.
• Socio-economic violence: Denying access to money, health services, education or employment.

Support services in Durban/ KZN:

• TEARS Foundation – 24/7 crisis helpline: 08000 TEARS
• POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse): 011 642 4345
• Local Durban Lifeline: 031 303 1344
• Kerr House Shelter: 031 303 2912
• Sahara Shelter (24-hour): 031 500 3671
• Mater Vitae Crisis Home (Bluff): 031 461 3465
• Open Door Crisis Centre: 084 409 2679
• UKZN Advice Desk for the Abused: 0800 204 321 / 0800 204 160
• Brighton Beach Victim Friendly Centre: 083 734 2841 or 064 528 5780
• Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre: 083 632 5798

Emergency numbers:

• SAPS emergency: 10111
• Ambulance emergency: 10177
• Crime Stop (anonymous tips): 08600 10111.

National GBV helplines:

• GBV Command Centre (24/7): 0800 428 428
• “Please Call Me” GBV service: 1207867#
• STOP Gender Violence Helpline: 0800 150 150

“We want to create a community where no victim feels alone and where every act of violence is met with action, not silence,” she said.

The Merewest Community Foundation urges all citizens to spread the numbers everywhere, as even a single act of awareness can save a life.

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