Abuse and Domestic Violence Hotlines in South Africa
Domestic abuse can take many forms — physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, or financial. It often involves controlling, threatening, or belittling a partner, spouse, or family member. Signs of abuse include:
- Feeling threatened or constantly monitored
- Avoiding certain topics to prevent angering your partner/family member
- Being forced into sexual activity
- Destruction of property or personal belongings
- Embarrassment or fear of how others might see your situation
- Invasion of privacy, including online
Abuse is never your fault. Statistics show that one in three women and one in three men in South Africa experience domestic violence. Every situation is unique, and navigating it alone can be confusing and dangerous.
Support is available. Reach out to one of South Africa’s free and confidential domestic abuse hotlines for guidance, protection, and assistance. You don’t have to face it alone.
Tears Foundation provides crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling, and prevention education services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse.
HELPLINE: 08000 83277
WEBSITE: https://tears.co.za
Stop Gender Violence Helpline offers 24/7, free and confidential support and information over phone.
HELPLINE: 011 715 2000
WEBSITE: https://lifelinesa.co.za/contact-us/
Tafta Elder Abuse Line provides crises counselling and referrals for further intervention for anyone in South Africa.
HELPLINE: 031 332 3721
WEBSITE: https://tafta.org.za
HELPLINE: 011 591 6803
WEBSITE: https://www.powa.co.za/
Childline provides 24/7, free and confidential support over phone and online chat. We exist to help youth in South Africa who may be struggling or looking for support with abuse & domestic violence, bullying, sexual abuse.
HELPLINE: 031-201 2059
WEBSITE: https://www.childlinesa.org.za/
HELPLINE: 0800428428
WEBSITE: https://gbv.org.za