The Department of Social Development’s Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) has reiterated its commitment to remaining open for 24 hours a day and seven days a week during this festive season.
The centre provides free, confidential and immediate support to survivors of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
“The GBVCC offers online trauma counselling, telephonic support, referrals to social workers, shelters, psychosocial services and law enforcement, ensuring that survivors receive timely assistance when they need it most.
“As South Africa enters the festive season, the department urges communities to remain vigilant and to report all forms of GBVF, noting that this period is historically associated with an increase in cases,” the department said.
The centre’s manager, Carol Tladi, noted that as the festive season ramps up, women and children face heightened risk.
“Our data consistently show that cases of gender-based violence increase during the festive season.
“Alcohol abuse, as well as the use of legal and illegal substances, remains one of the key drivers contributing to these incidents,” she explained.
Communities are urged to “play an active role in preventing violence, supporting survivors and reporting perpetrators”.
“GBVF is everyone’s responsibility. Help is available. Speak out,” the department said.
For assistance, contact the centre through the following means:
- Call: 0800 428 428
- Dial: *120*7867# from any cellphone
- Send a “Please Call Me” to *120*7867# - SAnews.gov.za
