16 Days of Activism: Your Guide to Support, Hotlines, and Actions to End GBV

by Simbulele Jezile | Nov 29, 2024 | Free Resources

In South Africa, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a devastating reality, with one in three women experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime and over 40% of children enduring abuse before they reach adulthood. Despite its prevalence, many cases remain unreported, leaving survivors without justice or support.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed globally from 25 November to 10 December, is a crucial time to raise awareness, provide support, and foster meaningful change.

Here’s how you can better understand, engage, and take actionable steps to address violence against women and children.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) refers to harm directed at individuals based on their gender. This includes physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, often rooted in power imbalances and cultural norms that perpetuate inequality.

This year’s theme, UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls, highlights the collective responsibility to create safer and more equitable communities.

Understanding Myths About Abuse: Why We Must Avoid Victim-Blaming

Victim-blaming silences survivors and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Common myths to challenge include:

• “Why didn’t they leave?” Leaving is often dangerous and complicated by fear, finances, or children.
• “They provoked it.” Abuse is the abuser’s choice—no one deserves violence.
• “It only happens in certain communities.” GBV transcends class, race, and geography.

Learn more about dismantling these myths at SaferSpaces.

How to Get Help

Hotlines for Support

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, these hotlines offer confidential, 24/7 support:

• Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
• GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 or dial 120 7867# from a cellphone.
• Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
• Tears Foundation: SMS “HELP” to 1347355 for nearby support services.
• South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111 for emergencies.

For additional resources, visit Tears Foundation.

Safe Shelters for Those in Need

If someone is in immediate danger, reaching out to a local shelter can be life-saving. Here are trusted organisations offering support:

• POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse): Shelters, counselling, and legal aid.
• Sisters Incorporated (Cape Town): Visit website
• iKhaya le Themba (Durban): Support for vulnerable women and children.
• Bethany House (Johannesburg): Visit website
• MOSAIC: GBV prevention and intervention services (Visit website).

Practical Tips for Community Action

Recognizing Signs of Abuse

Look out for these signs among friends or neighbours:

• Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, or fractures with unclear explanations.
• Behavioural changes: Withdrawal from activities or excessive fear.
• Isolation: Being prevented from seeing loved ones.

If you notice these signs:

• Start a conversation: Ask gently if they need help.
• Offer resources: Share hotline numbers or connect them to local organisations.

Setting Up Community Support Networks

Follow these steps to create a supportive neighbourhood network:

• Gather neighbours: Organize a meeting to discuss GBV.
• Partner with experts: Collaborate with NGOs for training.
• Establish safe zones: Create designated homes or spaces for survivors.
• Spread awareness: Host events, distribute flyers, and share resources.

For guidance, visit SaferSpaces Community Toolkit.

Start a Campaign

Crowdfunding can provide financial relief to survivors of abuse. If you want to make a difference, consider starting a campaign on BackaBuddy. Funds raised can support survivors with legal fees, housing, counselling, and more.
Visit BackaBuddy to start your campaign today.

Digital Advocacy Tools

The digital age provides powerful tools to support survivors and amplify advocacy efforts.

Apps to Support Survivors

• Safe Place: Crisis response and shelter information.
• bSafe: Personal safety app with an SOS button and location sharing.
• Bright Sky SA: Offers GBV resources and a risk assessment tool.

Templates for Social Media Advocacy

Amplify the message by using these templates:

Template 1:
🚨 It’s time to take a stand!
This #16DaysOfActivism, let’s UNITE to end violence against women and children.
💜 Share resources, support survivors, and be part of the change!
16 Days of Activism: Your Guide to Support, Hotlines, and Actions to End GBV – BackaBuddy

Template 2:
💔 1 in 3 women face GBV in their lifetime. Let’s change this. Speak out, donate, or volunteer to support survivors.
16 Days of Activism: Your Guide to Support, Hotlines, and Actions to End GBV – BackaBuddy

For more digital tools, visit End GBV Digital Tools.

Start the Healing Journey

For survivors of abuse, healing is a personal journey that takes time and support. Here are some practical steps to begin:

1. Seek Professional Help
   Therapists and counsellors trained in trauma can provide a safe space to process emotions and develop coping strategies.
   Free Services: Explore resources like LifeLine SA or Sadag.
2. Build a Support System
   Surround yourself with trusted friends, family, or support groups who can provide encouragement and understanding.
   Support Groups: Organisations like POWA and TEARS Foundation run survivor support programs.
3. Focus on Self-Care

• Meditation and Mindfulness: Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided exercises to manage anxiety.
• Journaling: Writing about your experiences can help process emotions and track progress.

1. Reconnect with Hobbies
   Rediscover activities that bring joy, whether it’s art, music, gardening, or sports.
2. Set Boundaries
   Learn to prioritize your needs and create boundaries that protect your emotional and physical well-being.

For additional tools and inspiration, visit Healing Resources from End GBV.

How to Get Involved

During 16 Days of Activism, take steps to raise awareness and promote change:

• Attend marches or events in your area.
• Volunteer with GBV-focused organisations.
• Share information on social media.
• Donate to trusted charities supporting survivors.

Charities to Support

Consider donating to or volunteering for these organisations making a significant impact in the fight against GBV:

• Women for Change: Empowering women and advocating for gender equality. Support their BackaBuddy Campaign. 
• Tears Foundation: Providing support services to victims of abuse. Support their BackaBuddy campaigns.
• POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse): A grassroots organisation fighting for justice and safety for women. Support their BackaBuddy Campaign.

Together, we can challenge violence, support survivors, and build a safer world for women and children.

A Guide to Supporting Those Experiencing Homelessness in South Africa

by Simbulele Jezile | Oct 9, 2024 | Free Resources

Homelessness in South Africa is a growing concern, impacting individuals and families across all provinces. At BackaBuddy, we understand the importance of providing resources and support to those in need. This guide offers insights on supporting loved ones who may be experiencing homelessness, how to communicate compassionately, and a comprehensive list of shelters across South Africa.

Understanding Stigmas and Causes of Homelessness

Addressing homelessness requires empathy and awareness of the many factors contributing to it. Unfortunately, some stigmas persist that can prevent effective support and understanding. Here’s what you need to know:

• Common Causes
  • Economic Hardships: Job loss, low wages, or insufficient affordable housing are significant contributors.
  • Health Issues: Both physical and mental health challenges can affect a person’s ability to maintain employment or stable housing.
  • Family Disruption: Domestic violence, family conflict, or loss of a family member can lead individuals to homelessness.
  • Lack of Support Services: Without access to mental health care, job training, or rehabilitation services, many struggle to regain stability.
• Common Stigmas
  • Laziness or Lack of Motivation: Many believe those experiencing homelessness are unwilling to work, overlooking systemic challenges they face.
  • Substance Abuse: Although addiction may contribute to homelessness for some, many affected individuals struggle with complex mental health and economic issues.
  • Criminal History: A past conviction can limit access to stable employment or housing, pushing some into homelessness.

How to Support a Loved One Experiencing Homelessness

Supporting someone facing homelessness can be challenging, but small, meaningful actions can make a big difference. What can you do?

1. Listen with Empathy
   Approach conversations with openness and empathy. Just being present can help them feel valued and less isolated.
2. Offer Practical Assistance
   • Provide essential items like a meal, warm clothing, hygiene products, or transport fare to meet immediate needs.
   • Support them through fundraising on platforms like BackaBuddy, where crowdfunding campaigns can help secure essentials, temporary housing, or job training resources.
3. Encourage Steps Forward
   Offer hope by encouraging small, manageable steps toward stability, such as exploring job training or reaching out to shelters for transitional housing.

Communicating with Respect and Compassion

When speaking to someone who is experiencing homelessness, an empathetic, respectful approach can make all the difference. Here’s how:

• Be Respectful: Address them as an equal, using their name if known.
• Listen Actively: Let them share without interrupting or judging.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Invite them to share what kind of support would be most helpful.
• Offer Help, Not Solutions: Ask how you can assist instead of assuming what they need.
• Respect Boundaries: Recognize their need for privacy and personal space.
• Show Compassion: Sometimes just knowing someone cares can make a difference.

Legal Rights of Homeless Individuals

In South Africa, there are rights in place to protect and support those experiencing homelessness. Being aware of these can provide some relief:

• Access to Shelter: Municipalities are encouraged to provide emergency shelter to those in need.
• Right to Dignity and Privacy: The South African Constitution safeguards dignity and privacy for everyone, regardless of their living situation.
• Access to Health and Social Services: Free healthcare and emergency housing assistance are available for those in crisis.

Immediate Resources for Those in Crisis

In times of crisis, knowing where to turn for help can be life-changing. If someone is experiencing homelessness or a crisis, here’s where they can get help: 

Emergency Contacts

• Police / Ambulance: 10111
• National Gender-Based Violence Hotline: 0800 428 428
• Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
• Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322 (counseling services)

Mental Health Support

• Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322 for crisis counseling.
• SADAG: Free support groups and mental health resources: 0800 567 567.
• Read BackaBuddy’s Mental Health Resource: Shattering the Stigma: Helping Those in Need of Mental Health Support

Job Training and Skills Development

• YES (Youth Employment Service): Employment experience for youth, enhancing employability.
• SETA Programs: Free training programs in various industries. Visit the SAQA SETA Program Page for more information.

Shelters Across South Africa

Providing safe shelter is essential. Below is a list of shelters in South Africa that offer housing, food, counseling, and other supportive services.

• Gauteng Shelters

• Eastern Cape Shelters

• Free State Shelters

• Limpopo Shelters

• Mpumalanga Shelters

• Northern Cape Shelters

• Western Cape Shelters

Getting Involved Locally

Homelessness can feel overwhelming, but local efforts make a difference. Here’s how you can help:

• Volunteer at Shelters: Offer time or skills to support local shelters.
• Organize Donation Drives: Collect essentials like blankets, hygiene products, and clothing.
• Advocate for Change: Engage with community leaders to promote affordable housing, healthcare, and job programs.

Be a Lifeline: Support, Donate, or Champion the Cause

• SuperTroupers Campaign: Donate here to support vital resources for individuals and families in need.
• PMB Homeless Network: Become a Champion and join a movement dedicated to transforming lives.

If you’re looking for more ways to get involved or want to learn about additional resources, visit BackaBuddy and become part of the change.

A Compassionate Guide to Understanding, Processing, Supporting, and Seeking Help for Grief

by Simbulele Jezile | Aug 30, 2024 | Free Resources

Grief is a complex emotional response to loss, often associated with the death of a loved one, but it can also arise from other significant life changes. The process of grieving is deeply personal, varying greatly from one person to another. Understanding grief, how to handle it, and how to support others through it can make a significant difference in navigating this challenging experience.

What is Grief?

Grief is an intense emotional experience that encompasses a range of feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. It’s not a single emotion but rather a process that unfolds over time, often in stages. These stages—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—aren’t linear, and not everyone experiences all of them.

How to Process Grief

Processing grief involves allowing yourself to feel the emotions without judgement. It’s important to find healthy outlets for your grief, whether through talking with trusted friends or family, engaging in creative expression, or seeking professional help. Here are some approaches that may help:

• Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing your emotions with someone you trust can lighten the burden. It could be a friend, family member, or a professional counsellor.
• Seek Professional Help: Grief counselling or therapy can provide you with tools to navigate your feelings and work through your grief in a healthy way. Organisations like South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offer free counselling services that can be incredibly beneficial during this time.
• Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep, and engaging in gentle physical activity. Taking care of your physical health can also help you manage emotional stress.

How to Support Someone Through Grief

Supporting someone in grief involves offering a listening ear and being present without trying to “fix” their pain. It’s about acknowledging their loss and offering comfort in ways that respect their grieving process. 

• Listen and Be Present: Sometimes, just being there and listening is the most supportive thing you can do. Avoid giving advice unless asked; instead, offer a listening ear.
• Offer Practical Help: Grief can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Offering to help with everyday tasks, such as cooking or errands, can be a significant relief.
• Suggest Resources: Encourage them to seek support from professional organisations, such as LifeLine South Africa or Hospice South Africa, which provide counselling and support services for those dealing with loss.

Running an “In Loving Memory” Campaign on BackaBuddy

Honouring a loved one’s memory through a crowdfunding campaign can be a meaningful way to channel grief into action. BackaBuddy allows you to create a campaign in memory of someone, raising funds for causes they cared about or that reflect their passions and values. This not only preserves their legacy but also brings together a community of supporters who share in your loss and want to contribute positively.

How to Create a Campaign:

1. Sign Up: Visit BackaBuddy and create an account.
2. Choose a Cause: Decide on a cause that reflects your loved one’s passions or values.
3. Tell Their Story: Share what made your loved one special and why this cause is meaningful. Include photos, videos, and updates to keep supporters engaged.
4. Share Widely: Use social media, email, and word of mouth to spread the word about your campaign.

Additional Resources for Grief Support

Link to Articles About Grief

For those looking to delve deeper into understanding and processing grief, here are some insightful articles:

• Coping with Loss: Navigating the Journey Through Grief

This article offers practical strategies and compassionate guidance for navigating the journey of grief and finding healing. Read More

• How to Be There for Someone Who’s Grieving

This article provides practical tips and guidance on how to support a grieving friend or family member with compassion and understanding. Read More

• The Five Stages of Grief Explained

This article offers a clear explanation of the five stages of grief and how they might manifest differently for each individual. Read More

Apps for Grief Support

In today’s digital age, several apps can offer comfort, resources, and community support for those grieving:

• GriefWorks – An app that offers daily tips, journaling prompts, and guided meditations designed to help you process grief at your own pace.
• My Grief Angels – This app connects you with others going through similar experiences, offering peer support and resources.

Mindfulness for Grief – Focuses on mindfulness practices specifically tailored for those grieving, helping you find peace in difficult times.

Free Resources for Grief Support in South Africa

Accessing support during grief is crucial, and there are several resources in South Africa that can provide help at no cost:

• SADAG: Offers free counselling services and support groups for those dealing with grief and other mental health challenges.
• LifeLine South Africa: Provides a 24-hour crisis helpline and counselling services for individuals dealing with grief and other crises.
• Hospice South Africa: Offers palliative care and bereavement support services across the country, helping families navigate the complexities of loss.

These organisations can provide valuable support, whether you’re seeking help for yourself or looking to support someone else through their grief.

For more information on creating a memorial campaign, visit BackaBuddy.

Shattering the Stigma: Helping Those in Need of Mental Health Support

by Simbulele Jezile | May 9, 2024 | Free Resources

In South Africa, mental health remains a significant concern, and May’s Mental Health Month is dedicated to raising awareness, spreading knowledge, and providing crucial resources and assistance to those in need.

BackaBuddy has put together this blog post to offer support to those in need by providing a comprehensive list of organizations and helplines that can offer assistance and guidance during challenging times.

Raising Awareness:

Mental Health Month serves as an opportunity to engage the community in conversations about mental health, eradicating the stigma attached to it. Encourage open dialogue by sharing personal stories, experiences, or struggles with mental health through social media, blog posts, or local events. By discussing mental health openly, we can help break down barriers and create a more supportive environment.

Self-Care and Well-being:

Taking care of our mental health is essential for our overall well-being. Encourage self-care practices by suggesting activities that promote mental wellness. Share ideas such as mindfulness exercises, meditation apps, physical activities, creative outlets, and healthy coping mechanisms. Encourage individuals to prioritize self-care and seek professional help when needed.

Support for those in need:

Mental health affects people from all walks of life, and it’s crucial to offer support to loved ones who may be struggling. 

Here are some ways to lend a helping hand:

• Be a good listener: Actively listen to someone who needs to talk. Provide a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their thoughts and feelings.
• Educate yourself: Learn about mental health conditions and symptoms to better understand what others may be experiencing. This knowledge can help you offer more informed support.
•  Check-in with loved ones: Reach out to family, friends, and colleagues regularly. A simple text or phone call can make a significant difference in someone’s day and show that you care.

List of Helplines and Organizations:

In times of crisis, it is essential to have access to professional support. Here is a list of organizations and helplines available to South Africans seeking mental health assistance:

• South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): Helpline: 0800 21 22 23 | SMS: 31393 | Website: www.sadag.org
• Lifeline South Africa: Helpline: 0861 322 322 | Website: www.lifeline.co.za
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Helpline: 0800 567 567
• South African Federation for Mental Health: Website: www.safmh.org.za
• Akeso Psychiatric Clinics: Website: www.akeso.co.za
• Psych Central South Africa: Website: www.psychcentral.co.za
• The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP): Website: www.sasop.co.za

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and the organizations and helplines listed above are here to support you on your journey toward better mental health. Let’s work together to ensure that mental health receives the attention, care, and support it deserves.