We are ONE VOICE united against gender-based violence | Western Cape Government

We are ONE VOICE united against gender-based violence

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Gender-based violence (GBV) has impacted the lives of many residents.

There are several complex root causes of GBV. Among these, are intergenerational cycles of abuse and sustained exposure to violence. This spans race, income bracket, gender, age, and geographic location.

We wish to encourage those who are experiencing any form of abuse to access available support services. We also encourage all residents to be ambassadors of peace wherever they find themselves.

We can all do our part in ending the cycle of violence by standing up for survivors and supporting them.

You can help end the cycle of gender-based violence.

What is gender-based violence (GBV)?

GBV is any action that harms or injures another person by using power and control. There are many forms of GBV of which the main forms are:

  • Physical violence
  • Sexual violence
  • Emotional and Psychological violence
  • Socioeconomic violence

What we offer:

The Department of Social Development’s Victim Empowerment Programme, supported by funded NGOs in the Western Cape, offers a variety of service options which include:

  • emotional and practical support,
  • management of trauma,
  • identification of the symptoms of post-traumatic stress,
  • referrals to professional services where necessary,
  • provision of court support services during the criminal justice process,
  • promoting the rights and responsibilities of clients through advocacy,
  • ensuring that clients are aware of their rights,
  • assessment and referral to funded shelters where applicable.

GBV affects many members of our society but more specifically vulnerable groups such as:  

DSD services aims to address behavioural changes in relation to the stigma attached to GBV and to encourage the protective role of all members of society and promote the empowerment of victims.

If you have been a victim of a crime you should:

  • get to a place of safety;
  • report the incident to the relevant authorities;
  • seek medical assistance;
  • ask for help from a trusted person or social service provider.

Where to go for Help?

Contact the Western Cape DSD Toll-free line Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 16:00 PM on 0800 220 250.

Call-centre agents will assist victims and non-victims of gender-based violence with access to information about GBV and available services and escalations to the Department.

  • National Shelter Movement (24-hour line): 0800 001 005
  • Police: 10111
  • Childline: 116
  • The Human Trafficking Resource Line: 0800 222 777
  • Substance Use Disorder: www.heretohelp.co.za to find a registered facility

    Helpful information 

     

    The content on this page was last updated on 28 November 2023