People Opposing Woman Abuse (POWA) - Chris Hani Hospital

About POWA — People Opposing Women Abuse

People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) is a women's rights organisation established in 1979 that provides free services to women who have experienced violence. POWA operates from six branch offices strategically located in economically disadvantaged areas across Gauteng: Berea (head office), Katlehong, Vosloorus, Evaton, Thembisa, and Soweto.

Services

• Individual counselling — free face-to-face, telephonic, and email counselling for women affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of GBV.
• Group counselling — support groups for survivors.
• Emergency shelters — two shelters on Johannesburg's East Rand (20 beds) and West Rand (10 beds) providing safe accommodation for up to one year, with counselling, legal advice, and skills development.
• Legal support — court preparation for witnesses, court accompaniment, assistance with protection orders, maintenance, and divorce proceedings.
• Skills development — economic empowerment programmes to help survivors build financial independence.
• Awareness and education — public campaigns on women's rights and GBV prevention.
• Advocacy — engagement with government on law and policy reform affecting women.
• Transport — assistance with transport to courts, clinics, and hospitals.

Who Can Access These Services

Any woman who has experienced violence can contact POWA at 011 642 4345/6 or email counselling@powa.co.za, or visit any POWA branch office. Services are free.