UK women's safety helplines and charities explained

If you or someone you know is affected by violence, abuse, or harassment, you do not have to face it alone. The UK has a network of free, confidential helplines and charities staffed by trained advisers. This guide explains who to contact and when.

In an emergency

If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 after dialling 999 to use the Silent Solution system — the police will know you need help. For non-emergencies, dial 101.

National helplines

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) — free, 24-hour support for anyone affected by domestic abuse, run by Refuge. Confidential and available every day.
• Rape Crisis England & Wales (0808 500 2222) — confidential support for survivors of rape, sexual abuse, assault, or harassment. Also offers a live web chat.
• Victim Support (0808 168 9111) — practical and emotional support for anyone affected by crime, available 24/7 and free.
• Samaritans (116 123) — free, 24-hour listening support for anyone struggling to cope, whatever the reason.
• Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline (0800 999 5428) — support for LGBT+ survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
• Karma Nirvana (0800 5999 247) — support for those at risk of, or affected by, "honour"-based abuse and forced marriage.

Specialist support

• Women's Aid — information, a survivor's handbook, and local services for domestic abuse.
• Refuge — alongside running the national helpline, Refuge offers safe accommodation and advocacy.
• The Survivors Trust — a network of specialist services for survivors of sexual violence across the UK.
• Solace Women's Aid (London) and similar regional charities offer local advice, refuge, and counselling.

For children and young people

• Childline (0800 1111) — free, confidential support for anyone under 19.
• NSPCC (0808 800 5000) — advice and support for adults worried about a child.

Practical tips for reaching out

• You do not need to be in crisis to call. Helplines welcome early calls and questions.
• Calls are confidential. Charities will not share your details unless there is a serious risk of harm.
• If you cannot talk freely, many services offer web chat, email, or text.
• Save the numbers you might need in your phone under a discreet name, or keep them in Athena's Support Hub for one-tap access.

A reminder

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These services exist because what happened to you matters. Whatever your situation — whether it happened recently or years ago — there are people ready to listen, believe you, and help you take the next step.