5 free Durban shelters for abused women

THE rate of violence against women and girls in South Africa is one of the highest in the world.

According to official crime statistics, one in five women in relationships have experienced physical violence by a partner, and many more have suffered other forms of violence by men they know and strangers. The crime statistics for 2023 reported by police suggest that over 15 000 women were victims of physical and sexual assault.

Also read: Support group for abused women

The report also reveals that more than 960 women were killed because of domestic-violence-related cases. Stats suggest that between October 1 and December 31, 2023, about 12 211 rape cases were reported. About 34 women were murdered, 194 more were victims of attempted murder and 1 203 more were victims of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) between October and December 2023.

As we observe Women’s Month, we share information about some Durban-based shelters for abused women. These shelters assist abused women for free.

Here are the shelters for abused women that are found in Durban:

• Hospice for Women, also known as Kerr House: This facility is a women’s refuge that provides shelter to women in crisis. It also provides clean and comfortable accommodation for up to 17 mothers and children, three meals a day, skills training, counselling by resident social workers, therapeutic group work and individual rehabilitation. You can contact them via kerrhouse@telkomsa.net or 031 303 2912.
• The Open Door Crisis Care Centre based in Pinetown: It provides short-term shelter for pregnant women with their children who are in need of help. You can contact them on 084 409 2679/031 709 2679 or send an email to info@opendoor.org.za.
• The Sahara Shelter for Abused Women and Children – a non-profit organisation (NPO): It provides short-term accommodation for abused women and their children. You can phone them on 031 500 3671.
• Advice Desk for Abused Women based in Westville: This non-government organisation (NGO) is known for addressing social ills in society associated with gender-based violence. You can phone them on 031 262 5231.
• Umlazi SAPS Victim Friendly Centre: This facility has professional social workers who deal with cases of domestic violence. You can phone them on 031 312 2323 or use their WhatsApp number: 083 639 2323.

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