LifeLine Durban

LifeLine Durban has been responding to the emotional and social crises of Durban's communities since 1970. Today it is one of the most richly programmed LifeLine centres in South Africa — running a 24-hour crisis line, GBV psychosocial support at multiple Thuthuzela Care Centres, a White Door shelter, forensic assessments, court preparation, skills development, and HIV testing across three KwaZulu-Natal districts.

What They Offer Survivors

24-Hour Crisis Line — 031 312 2323 Free, confidential telephone counselling is available around the clock. Counsellors are trained to support survivors of GBV, rape, domestic violence, trauma, relationship crisis, and more — at any hour.

GBV Psychosocial Support at Thuthuzela Care Centres LifeLine Durban staffs social workers and social auxiliary workers at 9 Thuthuzela Care Centres across eThekwini, iLembe, uGu, and Amajuba districts: - Mahatma Gandhi TCC - Prince Mshiyeni Umlazi TCC - R.K. Khan TCC - Port Shepstone TCC (24 hours) - And more across the region

First responders provide trauma debriefing, containment, psychosocial support, and referrals at each TCC. Most sites operate 24 hours.

SAPS Victim Friendly Rooms — 51 Sites LifeLine Durban supports 51 Victim Friendly Rooms at SAPS stations across the region — ensuring trained support workers are in place when survivors report to police.

White Door Shelter (Umdoni District) A White Door overnight and weekend respite facility is available in the Amandawe area for survivors of GBV who need immediate temporary safety.

Rape Crisis Care and Forensic Assessment Dedicated rape crisis care and forensic assessments of adult survivors are available — supporting survivors through the medical and legal requirements that follow sexual assault.

Court Preparation and Support LifeLine Durban prepares survivors for the court process and compiles impact assessment reports for the National Prosecution Authority and SAPS — ensuring your voice is heard and your experience is properly documented for justice proceedings.

Face-to-Face Counselling and WhatsApp Sessions Individual and family face-to-face counselling is available by appointment. WhatsApp counselling is also available for those who cannot attend in person.

Skills Development for GBV Survivors Empowerment skills training for survivors of GBV includes sewing, baking, computer skills, and detergent and perfume manufacturing — building economic independence as a pathway out of vulnerability.

Men and Boys Programme LifeLine Durban engages men and boys through dialogue and group sessions — confronting the attitudes and behaviours that enable GBV.

HIV Counselling, Testing and Treatment Support As an accredited HIV testing provider, LifeLine Durban offers HIV awareness, pre- and post-test counselling, CD4 count testing, condom distribution, TB screening, and ART linkage — including dedicated support for rape survivors accessing PEP treatment.

Support Groups for Survivors of Violence Aftercare support groups for survivors of violence provide ongoing community, healing, and mutual support beyond the immediate crisis.

LifeLine Durban crisis line: 031 312 2323 (24/7). Head office: 031 303 1344. For WhatsApp counselling, contact via adminteam@lifelinedurban.org.za.