Impressive balance, but frightening numbers: In its ten-year existence, the “Violence against Women” help line has supported 387,710 victims with advice.
Since it was founded ten years ago, the “Violence against Women” help line has supported 387,710 victims with advice. “More than 26,000 of them in a foreign language. And that’s a really impressive result. Even if the occasion is of course not a good one: the existence of violence against women,” said Family Minister Lisa Paus (Greens) in Berlin.
“100 female counselors are on the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even in the middle of the night when the partner becomes violent. Also early in the morning when he has just gone to work, or in the late afternoon when the stalker is standing next to the house entrance again .”
Domestic violence is a particularly common cause
According to the figures, domestic violence is particularly often the reason for counseling sessions. The counselors placed women with local institutions 193,834 times, 82 percent of them to counseling centers and women’s shelters.
According to the Ministry for Family Affairs, every third woman in Germany is a victim of physical and/or sexual violence at least once in her life. Around one in four suffer physical or sexual violence at least once from their current or former partner.
According to the ministry, only about 20 percent of those affected turn to counseling or support facilities. The reasons are very different: women often do not trust that someone will believe them, or they are ashamed. Many of those affected simply do not know which contact points there are at all.
The phone number becomes easier
The help line is designed to provide low-threshold help – anonymous advice is possible on the phone, in chat or by e-mail. In order to make access even easier, the previous number has now been shortened and simplified. From June 1st, the helpline can be reached around the clock on 116016 – and is also the national emergency number in other European countries. The previous number 08000 116 016 will remain available in Germany for at least one year.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
