Rape Crisis Helderberg

The Crisis Centre — also known as Rape Crisis Helderberg — is a non-profit organisation that has served survivors of rape, sexual violence, and abuse in the Helderberg Basin and surrounding communities since 1993. Founded by Felicity Bouwer in direct response to a desperate gap in services for survivors, the centre was the first of its kind in the Western Cape — conceived in partnership with police, the local hospital, and the community.

All services are completely free of charge and are open to any person over the age of 18, regardless of gender, race, neighbourhood, or when the abuse took place. They serve a catchment area of over 250,000 people across Somerset West, Strand, Gordon's Bay, Grabouw, Lwandle, Nomzamo, Macassar, Faure, Firgrove, and Sir Lowry's Pass.

Their message is clear: "Rape is NEVER the survivor's fault. Silence does not mean consent."

What They Offer Survivors

24-Hour Crisis Intervention If you have been assaulted, you can reach the Crisis Centre at any time of day or night — every day of the year including public holidays. In the critical first hours after a sexual assault, they guide you through accessing medical care, HIV prevention medication (PEP), police reporting, and forensic evidence — and you don't have to face any of it alone.

Free One-on-One Counselling Counselling is available for survivors of rape, sexual assault, child abuse, incest, domestic violence, and GBV. Importantly, there is no time limit — you can come to the Crisis Centre whether your assault happened last night or decades ago. You do not need to have reported to the police to access counselling.

Court Support If you choose to pursue legal action, the Crisis Centre will accompany you through the process — assisting with obtaining protection orders and interdicts, preparing you for court, and providing ongoing support and advice throughout criminal proceedings.

Survivor Support Group for Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse This is one of the rarest and most vital services the Crisis Centre offers. They run one of the only dedicated programmes in South Africa specifically for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This group provides a space to process complex, long-held trauma in the company of others who understand.

Satellite Counselling Offices in Communities The Crisis Centre has satellite counselling rooms at the Nomzamo/Lwandle SAPS station and at Sir Lowry's Pass SAPS — bringing support directly into township communities that might otherwise struggle to access services in Somerset West.

HIV and Pregnancy Prevention If you have been sexually assaulted, the Crisis Centre can urgently connect you with medication to prevent HIV and pregnancy — getting you there immediately is one of their priorities.

All services are FREE. No appointment needed in a crisis — call 083 484 9409 at any time.