Nationwide Support Hotline

The nationwide support hotline “Violence Against Women" simplifies access to the support system for the persons concerned. It is primarily directed at women who have experienced violence. But also relatives, acquaintances, and professionals can make use of the free counselling service. The support hotline is also open to trans persons who are affected by violence.

Available Day and Night – Anonymous and Free of Charge

The support hotline can be reached day and night under 08000 116 016 – free of charge, and anonymous if desired. Moreover, the website www.hilfetelefon.de offers online counselling via e-mail or chat. The online counselling service is also available from outside of Germany, whereas the hotline is only available in Germany.

Initial Counselling and Crisis Intervention

Trained counsellors offer initial counselling and crisis intervention, if needed in 17 different languages. The website explains the services in sign language and in plain language. In case of specific support needs, counsellors can forward to contacts from the support network and to local counselling centres.

More information can be found on the website www.hilfetelefon.de. Also, free multi-language information material (posters, flyers, online banners) can be downloaded on the website or ordered as printed versions. 

Berlin-Based Hotline for Women Affected by Violence

Besides the nationwide support hotline, there is also the Berlin-based BIG hotline which serves as a central telephone counselling centre in cases of domestic violence. It can be reached every day from 8 am to 11 pm – also on Sundays and holidays – under the telephone number 611 03 00. It is possible to bring in interpreters for counselling. More information can be found at www.big-hotline.de.