“If we are to be successful in addressing the ongoing injustices against our women and children, we need to start at our homes and our communities – for if a woman and child cannot be safe in their own homes or communities, then how can we expect them to feel safe anywhere.” – Social Development MEC Sharna Fernandez
Any person can phone the following organisations to report women and child abuse:
Stop Gender Violence helpline: 0800 150 150
Report neglect or abuse of a child: 0861 4 CHILD (24453)
SAPS: 08600 10111
Childline: 08000 55 555
Report any abuse of children and women to the Department of Social Development on 0800 220 250.
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre: 0800 428 428
LifeLine 24-hour crisis helpline: 021 461 1111
Find out more about the Department of Social Development’s safety services for women and children by sending an SMS with the word INFO to 35 395.
Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust counselling lines:
Observatory: 021 447 9762
Athlone: 021 633 9229
Khayelitsha: 021 361 9085
If you’re a witness and are afraid for your safety for reasons linked to being a witness, you can apply for witness protection.
Contact the Witness Protection Unit at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) at 012 845 6000
For more information about other services, please refer to the Western Cape Department’s Website :
