Below is a directory of charities and organisations delivering vital resources to survivors, families, advocates, and professionals. Browse these resources to discover available services and connect with the support you need.
Note: This directory currently covers the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. We intend to expand this in the near future
UK & Northern Ireland
Victim & Witness Services
Citizens Advice- Witness Support Service:
A service run by the charity Citizens Advice. They provide assistance to those navigating the court and justice system as a crime witness, crime victim or the friend, family or acquaintance of someone who died in a criminal incident. They can help you understand what will happen before, during and after a trial, help you know and exercise your rights, arrange for a visit to court before the trial and arrange counselling support. To refer yourself to this service, complete the form linked below. .
Victim Support:
A charity that offers information, emotional support and legal advice to both children and adults who have experienced or been impacted by crime. Victim Support operates independently from the police and it is not a requirement that the crime has been reported, in order to access their support. They run a helpline that is contactable at 08 08 16 89 111, by using their live chat or filling out the contact form on their website.
https://www.victimsupport.org.uk
Victim and Witness Information:
An online service that offers digital guides and information pages aimed to help you understand your rights as the victim or witness of a crime. They also offer general information on topics including the different types of crime, guidance on supporting a victim and different support organisations. If you want to report a crime or file a compensation claim, you can do that through the website.
https://victimandwitnessinformation.org.uk/
Victim Support Northern Ireland:
A charity that offers information, emotional support and legal advice to both children and adults who have experienced or been impacted by crime in Northern Ireland. Victim Support NI operates independently from the police and it is not a requirement that the crime has been reported in order to access their support. You can request their support by calling 028 9024 3133 or 028 7137 0086.
https://www.victimsupportni.com/
Victim Support Northern Scotland:
A charity that offers information, emotional, practical or financial support and legal advice to both children and adults who have experienced or been impacted by crime in Scotland. They also run a helpline that is contactable at 0800 160 1985 Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-4pm or by using the webchat. To request support you can use the self-referral form on the website.
Crimestoppers:
An organisation focused on promoting crime reporting, through anonymous tip lines and the organisation of cash rewards, for information that leads to one or more persons being charged for a previously unsolved crime. A similar program is run by Crimestoppers to allow under 18s to make anonymous reports called fearless, which can also be found on their website.
Gender-Based, Sexual and Family violence.
Refuge:
A leading charity delivering practical, emotional and legal services to women and children experiencing domestic abuse. Services include safe emergency accommodation, assistance navigating the benefits system and access to independent advocates. Refuge can also provide community outreach support to males in domestic abuse situations. They run a national 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 0808 2000 247, otherwise they can be contacted at 020 7395 7700 (reception) or 020 7395 7771 (information, donations and fundraising.)
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
FLOWS:
Provides assistance to people who have survived domestic abuse in navigating legal systems, by connecting survivors to local experts or solicitors, advising on legal options such as non molestation orders, and offering general information on domestic violence. For support you can contact them at 0203 745 7707 Monday-Friday or by emailing flows@rcjadvice.org.uk
Respect:
Work to tackle and prevent domestic abuse by working directly with perpetrators in targeted programs. One such programme is make a change, a self-referral, community based early response program for people displaying lower level harm or control behaviours. If you are using abusive behaviours and want advice or help to stop, or are concerned about somebody else’s behaviour, they run a helpline that is contactable at 0808 8024040 or by using their webchat.
Clare’s law:
A legal scheme, formally named the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, that allows anyone who is concerned about a current or ex partner that they, or a friend or relative have and are still in contact with, to request information from the police. When a request is received police will respond by sharing information on any history of violence or abuse that person has.
Shelter:
A homelessness charity, they can advise anyone who is homeless, or facing homelessness as a direct result of domestic abuse, helping them to identify next steps and support options. They run a helpline that is contactable at 0808 800 4444.
https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/homelessness/help_if_youre_homeless_domestic_abuse
Rape Crisis:
Delivers services to survivors and others effected by child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault or harrasment and all other forms of sexual violence. Services include counselling and the ability to work with independent sexual violence advocates. They run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 0808 500 222 or by using the webchat, for anyone aged 16+.
Survivors UK:
Deliver services to men, boys and non-binary people who have experienced sexual violence at any stage of their life, including access to independent sexual violence advisors, case workers and support groups. They run a helpline for survivors and anyone supporting a survivor that is contactable at 0808 801 0332, by using the online chat, text or whatsapp.
The Survivors Trust:
An organisation supporting smaller charities that deliver services to survivors of sexual abuse and violence, by maintaining a database of these smaller, local charities and services in all regions of the UK. They deliver limited services for survivors and also run a helpline that is contactable at 0808 801 0818.
https://thesurvivorstrust.org/
Sexual Assault Referral Centre’s or SARC’S:
Specialist facilities, delivering medical and practical services, to anyone who has recently experienced rape or sexual assault. They are usually NHS run and free to attend, they can treat any injuries, provide STD or pregnancy tests and carry out forensic examinations to collect potential evidence. You can attend a SARC even if you don’t want to report it to the police, or are unsure, additionally a forensic exam can be conducted even if you are not wanting to, or not ready to report the assault. Evidence can be collected and preserved ready for the event that you wish to report in the future. To find your nearest SARC you can use the NHS search tool, linked below.
Parental Education Growth Support (PEGS):
Delivers services to parents and carers experiencing child to parent abuse, you can refer yourselves for support using the form on their website. Services offered are mainly virtual and can be dependent on the circumstances of each referral, however they include a peer support group, workshops and 1-1 support from a PEGS practitioner. Training is also available for professionals.
Capa First Response:
Delivers services to families experiencing child to parent abuse/aggression, services available include online drop-in sessions, advice sessions, group work and online resources. Training is also available for professionals.
http://www.capafirstresponse.org/
Mankind:
Delivers services to male survivors of domestic abuse, including those trying to escape. They run a free helpline that is contactable at 0808 800 1170, an online recovery programme and maintain a directory of support services.
The National Association For People Abused In Childhood:
Delivers support services to adult survivors of any and all forms of child abuse. They run a confidential helpline Monday-Thursday 10am- 9pm and Friday 10am-6pm that is contactable at 0808 801 0331. They also offer free, digital resources covering a range of topics relating to abuse, mental wellbeing and recovery, training for professionals and a directory of other organisations that can help.
One In Four:
A specialist organisation delivering counselling, advocacy support and workshops to survivors of child sexual abuse, violence and trauma. The advocacy support service is free and can be accessed by emailing advocacy@oneinfour.org.uk, however counselling is paid for and a consultation can be requested directly on the website.
Rape Crisis Northern Ireland:
Deliver support services to survivors of rape or sexual assault in adulthood. Survivors receiving support from Rape Crisis NI will be connected with a support worker who can offer emotional support and a listening ear, provide practical assistance and guidance through court proceedings or signpost to other useful services. They run an information and support line that is contactable at 0800 0246 991 Monday-Thursday 10am-12pm, 6pm-8pm. You can request support through the information and support line. They also have a signposting directory on the website of other services and organisations that may be helpful.
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline:
A 24/7 helpline for anyone in Northern Ireland who is experiencing or has experienced domestic or sexual violence that is contactable at 0808 802 1414, by using the live chat or emailing help@dsahelpline.org.
The Rowan:
The regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre for Northern Ireland, they can help women, men, children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse and violence recently or in the past. They can conduct forensic medical examinations, offer emergency contraception, make referrals to counselling services, and assist and support you to make a police report. You can request help using the helpline they run that is contactable at 0800 389 4424.
Live Fear Free:
A 24/7 helpline for anyone in Wales who needs help, advice or information regarding violence against women, including domestic violence, coercive control and sexual abuse, that is contactable at 0808 80 10 800. Text, webchat and email options are also available.
https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free
Stepping Stones North Wales:
A charity delivering services to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, in all six counties of Wales. The services provided are free and focused on wellbeing, breaking cycles of trauma and abuse, and helping people rebuild their lives. They include art therapy, counselling and psychoeducation classes. You can self refer for services through the website, or a professional can make a referral on your behalf.
https://www.steppingstonesnorthwales.co.uk
New Pathways:
A charity supporting children and adults who have experienced rape, sexual abuse or sexual assault in the North Wales area. They can connect you with an independent sexual violence advocate who can help you decide whether to report and navigate the process if you do and they can provide counselling. New Pathways also have their own Sexual assault referral centres, some of which are open 24/7, where you can receive forensic medical examination, medical aftercare, information and referrals for ongoing support can be made. You can make a referral for yourself or a young person using the forms on the website, a contact form can also be found on the website.
https://www.newpathways.org.uk
Victims of Homicide & Manslaughter
Support After Murder And Manslaughter:
Delivers peer support services to anyone bereaved by murder or manslaughter, whether they are the parent, other relative or friend of someone killed. Services available include empowerment retreats, an online forum and 1-1 phone or video calls with a volunteer. They run a helpline that is contactable at 0121 472 2912.
Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse:
Delivers peer support, legal advice and advocacy services to family members or friends bereaved by domestic abuse. To access support you can call 07887 488 464 or email help@aafda.org.uk
Hundred Families:
Offers information and practical advice for families bereaved by a mental health related homicide, including informational guides on legal or investigative processes, handling the media and signposting to other support services. A contact form is available on the website.
https://www.hundredfamilies.org/
The Coroners Courts Support Service:
Offers information and provides assistance to bereaved families, witnesses or others attending an inquest at coroners court. Including telephone support, arranging for a volunteer to accompany you to court and online informational guides. They run a national helpline that is contactable at 0300 111 2141 or by emailing helpline@ccss.org.uk.
https://coronerscourtssupportservice.org.uk/
Victims Abroad:
Provide assistance to anyone who was the victim of a crime abroad, or who has been bereaved by murder or manslaughter abroad, by helping with understanding or completing paperwork in another language, advising on court processes, acting as a liaison with the police on a range of issues and more. They can offer support in Spanish, French, Catalan and Portuguese, and can utilise their network to meet needs in other languages such as German, Romanian or Scandinavian languages. You can access support by contacting the organisation at +44 (0) 7956 210600, info@multilingualcrime.com, using the website contact form or social media links on the website.
The Kirsty Maxwell Charity:
Offers information and support to anyone bereaved by a suspicious or criminal death abroad, including signposting help, guiding you on social media campaigns and fundraising, putting you in touch with relevant expertise and giving general, sincere advice.
https://kirstymaxwellcharity.co.uk/
Murdered abroad:
A peer support organisation for those in the UK who have lost a relative, partner or friend as a result of murder or manslaughter overseas. They meet yearly in London, Manchester, Gloucester, Northampton and can provide practical assistance, support you emotionally and signpost you to organisations offering financial support. The organisation also runs a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 0845 123 23 84.
https://www.murdered-abroad.org.uk
Scotland’s Campaign Against Irresponsible Drivers (SCID):
A charity started and run by relatives of people killed as a result of reckless, dangerous or irresponsible driving. They campaign for changes to the law to make roads safer and make things better for victims, whilst supporting those bereaved as a result of irresponsible or dangerous driving. To request support from SCID you can contact them at info@scid.org.uk.
Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking and Torture
The Helen Bamber Foundation:
Delivers services to survivors of extreme cruelty, torture and abuse. Services include a weekly community group, education and employment workshops, assistance in finding safe, secure housing, legal support and protection, and therapeutic interventions. You can complete a referral form for support yourself, or on behalf of a client, by pressing the website's refer button.
Freedom From Torture:
Delivers therapy, activity groups and other practical services such as interpreting to men, women and children who have survived physical or psychological torture . You can refer yourself for support through the website.
Redress:
Handles cases of UK-based survivors of torture, seeking reparations for the torture or ill-treatment they experienced, making legal claims and providing them with direct representation. Survivors can request redress to take on their claims, and do not need to be referred by a third party, however it is worth noting that the charity has a specific criteria for which cases they will accept. This criteria can be viewed on the website under ‘help for survivors’, ‘Can Redress Take On Your Case?’
The Modern Slavery Helpline:
A free helpline for survivors of modern slavery, also known as domestic servitude, human trafficking or forced labour, that is contactable at 08000 121 700 and available in 200 languages. Survivors can access services and support through the helpline, whilst members of the public use the helpline to report concerns or get advice
https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org/
Stop The Traffik:
Tackles human trafficking through prevention programmes, data driven solutions and analytics. They do not deliver direct services to survivors, but anyone concerned that they have witnessed trafficking or forced labour can submit a report, either using their STOP app or an online form, accessible through the website.
https://www.stopthetraffik.org/
FGM, Forced Marriage & Honour Violence
The Forced Marriage Unit:
A Government service providing assistance to anyone trying to leave a forced marriage, who is at risk of a forced marriage, or is in the process of being forced into a marriage eg: someone has already been taken abroad with the intention of being forcefully married. The victim or person at risk can make contact with the unit as well as anyone trying to protect someone else from a forced marriage. Contact details and additional information can be found via the website.
https://www.gov.uk/stop-forced-marriage
Karma Nirvana:
Tackles honour based abuse and forced marriage by gathering data, campaigning for change and providing training. They also deliver support services including counselling and run a helpline that is contactable at 0800 5999 247.
http://www.karmanirvana.org.uk/
The Halo Project:
Supports black and minority women experiencing, or at risk of domestic violence, sexual abuse, forced marriage, FGM or honour based abuse. They deliver a wide range of services and run a helpline that is contactable at 01642 683045.
https://www.haloproject.org.uk/
Ashiana;
A charity delivering specialist services to Black and Minority Ethnicity woman who have experienced, or are at risk of violence against woman and girls, including forced marriage and female genital mutilation. Services include counselling, advocacy support for survivors, and workshops for young people. They run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 0808 2000 247, otherwise they can be contacted at 020 8539 0427
Hate crime
Stop Hate UK:
Focuses on hate crime, offering general information on the issue and related topics, running a portal to report incidents of hate crime and delivering training and education opportunities to professionals.
The Sophie Lancaster Foundation:
Focuses on the prevention of hate crime and intolerance, particularly that which is directed at alternative subcultures. They create and deliver educational workshops, resources, and run training programs for professionals.
https://www.sophielancasterfoundation.com/
Galop:
Delivers services to LGBTQ+ people who have experienced abuse or violence, including casework, emotional support, signposting, advice on your rights and advocacy services. Specific services are offered for young people. They run a helpline that is contactable at 0800 999 5428, by emailing helpline@galop.org.uk or by webchat.
Stalking & Unwanted Contact
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust:
A charity that offers online advice and support guides on the topics of stalking and harassment, as well as lone working safety tools. The primary service from the trust is the National Stalking Helpline that is contactable at 0808 802 0300 or by completing the online contact form, also available is an app for BSL users wishing to contact the helpline.
The Paladin Trust:
An organisation that provides assistance to stalking victims, particularly those considered high risk. Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers work with those experiencing stalking, ensuring they are supported and developing a coordinated community response to maintain safety. The service also delivers support services to young people under 25 and runs training programmes for professionals, increasing awareness and understanding of stalking. Anyone experiencing stalking can self refer themselves for support using the forms found on their website.
https://www.paladinservice.co.uk/
Unwanted Prisoner Contact Service Helpline:
A government service providing assistance to anyone receiving unwanted contact from an offender who is in prison. The helpline is available from Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm. You can use the helpline to stop getting unwanted letters, phone calls, texts or other messages from a prisoner.
0300 060 6699 unwantedprisonercontact@justice.gov.uk
Missing or Unidentified Persons
Missing People:
The only charity in the UK running a dedicated 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 116 000 for children and adults who have gone missing or are thinking of doing so, and the family and friends left behind. They also deliver a range of other services including a specialist service for those affected by gang exploitation or county lines, a tracing service for families who have lost contact, and a peer support forum.
https://www.missingpeople.org.uk
The Missing Persons Unit:
Acts as a national and international point of contact for unidentified body or missing persons investigations originating in the UK or potentially involving UK nationals, whilst providing limited assistance to the families of missing people. Informational documents can be accessed on their website, alongside signposting on how to report someone missing and other organisations that can offer help. The Missing Persons Units most significant offering is a database of unidentified people, bodies and human remains that is publicly accessible. Anyone, including families can use the database to cross reference with missing persons, identifying and submitting possible matches for review.
https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/missingpersons
Reunite:
A charity that specialises in providing assistance to families of children abducted and/or taken overseas unlawfully, particularly where parental child abduction has occurred. They run an advice line for parents, family members or guardians involved in international parental child abduction cases, extending to support parents who fear their child is at risk of parental abduction. If you are the parent, guardian or relative of a child abducted by a parent overseas, or have abducted your child overseas and need advice they run an adviceline that is contactable at +44 (0)116 255 6234.
Trace:
A scheme managed by the red cross that provides assistance to people in locating family members whose whereabouts are unknown or where contact has been lost. This scheme is primarily aimed at families separated by migration, war or natural disasters, rather than cases of missing people where foul play is suspected or possible. For more information or to access the self referral form, visit the website which is linked below.
https://www.redcross.org.uk/trace
Safecall:
A helpline run by the charity Missing People, that offers impartial support and practical advice to young people who have left home voluntarily, are thinking of leaving or are trapped in an unsafe situation. They can help you talk through options, access resources, identify ways to stay safe, and make contact with family or carers if you wish.. The phone and text helpline is contactable at 116 000, or by using the webchat, all three options will allow you to stay anonymous. Help and information guides can also be found on the Safecall website, linked below.
The Herbert Protocol:
A scheme that gathers information and important details about a person with dementia or Alzheimer's. This information is then securely stored in a file and can be retrieved by police or other emergency services, in the event that they go missing. The metropolitan police have put together an information page that explains in more detail what the Herbert Protocol is and how it works.
Locate International:
A volunteer organisation providing no cost investigative assistance to cases of missing or unidentified persons in the UK. They work closely with law enforcement and can arrange media appeals, review information and follow up on any new leads. You can self refer for services if you have a missing loved one, using the form on the website.
Child abuse & Exploitation
Childline:
A children's charity that runs a free, 24/7 helpline service that is contactable at 0800 111, by emailing or using the webchat, for a range of issues including child abuse, bullying and mental health concerns, whilst also offering monitored message boards and informational guides. Additionally Childline operates a report and remove page, which anyone under 18 can use to report sexual images or videos of themselves that exist on the internet, and request help to have them removed.
https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/online-mobile-safety/report-remove/
The NSPCC:
Works to tackle child abuse and neglect using their statutory powers, which allows them to take direct action to safeguard children at risk. They offer informational guides on child abuse for parents, carers and anyone working with children, and run a helpline for anyone concerned about a child, that is contactable at 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk A number of helplines on specific issues are also available and the numbers and details can be found on the website by clicking keeping children safe, then reporting abuse and dedicated helplines.
Sarah’s Law, officially The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme:
A legal scheme that allows anyone with concerns to formally ask the police if an adult who has contact with a child or children has a criminal record for child sexual offences or poses a risk to children for some other reason. Anyone concerned about someone's behaviour towards a child can apply, not just the parents. The application must be made about a specific person and a specific child or children. Officially the scheme is not a law but is often referred to as Sarah’s law.
CEOP:
A national police agency that responds to incidents of online child exploitation and provides educational programmes to young people, their parents and carers. They created the online safety centre- a reporting platform for any young person, friend or family member who has experienced online exploitation, has witnessed exploitation or is concerned someone else is being exploited. You can also report concerns about an adult's online behaviour. More information on what to expect after making a report is available on the website.
https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
The Ivison Trust:
Offers information to parents, helping them to protect their children from exploitation or cope if exploitation has happened. Telephone support, group awareness sessions and parent forums are all available. If you have concerns that your child is being exploited, you can request support from the trust using the form found in the parent section on the website.
The National Crime Agency:
Investigates serious and organised crime and delivers specialist support to local law enforcement. They have put together an information page on county lines, an often underreported and under recognised form of criminal exploitation. It covers the definition of county lines, signs to look for and where to go for help if you suspect yourself, or a child you know are being exploited through county lines.
https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/drug-trafficking/county-lines
The Breck Foundation:
Focuses on preventing grooming, online child exploitation and abuse, whilst promoting safer internet use. They create and deliver educational resources, curriculum programmes and talks or plays in schools, youth groups and similar settings across England. Booking a speaker, enquiring about any of their PSHE programmes, or accessing resources as a parent, teacher or youth group can all be done through their website.
https://www.breckfoundation.org/
Upstream:
An online resource created by Stop It Now! Scotland that is aimed at teaching adults in Scotland how to recognise, protect and respond to child sexual abuse, and protect the next child. The resource is free and covers topics such as the warning signs, understanding grooming, family safety planning and how to respond to disclosures of abuse.
https://www.theupstreamproject.org.uk
Online Safety, Online Harm & Illegal Content
Report Harmful Content:
A digital platform that users across the UK and Great Britain can access to report illegal or harmful content on social media platforms. Reports that the platform can handle and submit are those concerning threats, impersonation, bullying and harassment, self-harm or suicide content, online abuse, violent content, unwanted sexual advances and pornographic content. They cannot act on reports relating to child sexual abuse material. Full terms, conditions, information on what reports can be handled, and how to report can be found on the website.
https://reportharmfulcontent.com/
The Internet Watch Foundation:
Tackle the issue of child sexual abuse images online, by removing child abuse material from the internet, running campaigns and shaping policy in the UK and beyond to protect children. If you have discovered child sexual abuse material online, or suspect you have, a reporting tool is available on the website by clicking report.
The Marie Collins Foundation:
Delivers services to survivors of technology assisted child sexual abuse, and their parents or family members. Services include individual emotional support, practical support, and teaching strategies to parents and carers. They also have a lived experience advocacy group for adult survivors, who seek to improve outcomes for survivors of technology assisted child abuse. Services can be requested using the contact us button, found on the website.
https://www.mariecollinsfoundation.org.uk/
The Cyber Helpline:
Provides assistance to victims of cybercrime, digital fraud and online harm. A chatbot system exists to aid people in resolving their situation and identifying next steps and if necessary it can be requested for a query to be passed to a human adviser. Additionally information guides are offered through the website.
https://www.thecyberhelpline.com/
The Revenge Porn Helpline:
Provides assistance to anyone 18 and above in the UK who has had intimate images or videos of them shared, without their consent, or have someone threatening to do so. The helpline can help you with understanding social media policies, getting images removed, making a police report and signposting you to legal services. The helpline is contactable at 0345 6000 459 10am- 4pm or by emailing help@revengepornhelpline.org.uk
https://revengepornhelpline.org.uk/
The Brianna Ghey Legacy Project (founded by Esther Ghey):
Creates and delivers workshops in schools and community settings, focused on mental wellbeing, emotional regulation, safe use of the internet and understanding the impact of social media. Free resources are also available for parents to use at home. Alongside The Brianna Ghey Legacy Project, Esther also runs the Peace and Mind campaign, promoting mindfulness in school, and created the phone free education campaign. Visit the website to find out more about Esther’s work or to enquire about a workshop.
https://www.briannaslegacy.org/
The Molly Rose Foundation:
Focuses on suicide prevention, online safety and tech accountability. They create educational resources and programs for schools, run training on mental health and
suicide prevention for those working with children or young people, provide youth organisations and schools with free ‘help cards’ and campaign for law changes.
https://mollyrosefoundation.org/
Concerned about someone's behaviour?
Shorespace:
Offers advice, information and support to teenagers worried about sexual thoughts, feelings, behaviour, whether it's their own or someone else’s. A webchat helpline is available at limited hours or you can request support by email,
Stop It Now:
Delivers self-help services and offers information and support to anyone worried about the inappropriate thoughts or behaviour of themselves or another adult. Services are also available for survivors of child sexual abuse. They run a helpline that is contactable at 0808 1000 900, by webchat or by emailing.
https://www.stopitnow.org.uk/
Mental Health Support & Suicide Prevention
Shout:
A mental health charity running a confidential 24/7 text-line for anyone in crisis or struggling to cope that is contactable at 85258. They also deliver a peer support chat for those aged 16-25 and maintain a database of resources and other useful organisations.
Meic Cymru:
A helpline service for under 25s in Wales that is contactable at 080880 23456, by text, whatsapp or online chat. They can provide assistance on a range of issues such as mental health, bullying or abuse, homelessness, health and relationship concerns.
The Samaritans:
Focus on suicide prevention by running a free, 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 116 123 and facilitating drop in visits at branches across the country They also deliver curriculum resources to schools, provide support services in prisons and to people in specific careers.
Grief & Bereavement
The Child Death Helpline:
A free helpline, staffed by bereaved parents, for anyone bereaved or impacted by the death of a child. The helpline is contactable at 0800 282 986.
https://www.childdeathhelpline.org.uk
Brake:
Offers information and advice to those bereaved or seriously injured by road crashes. They can help you navigate legal processes, memorialise a loved one or make sure you receive emotional support.
The Sparkle Bean Trust:
A grant giving charity, focused on delivering small grants to primary schools who have experienced the sudden or traumatic death of a pupil. The grants are aimed at funding support, resources or activities that will support the school community and aid in their recovery, which can include counselling, a memorial at the first anniversary, or training.
Inquest:
Offers guidance and support to the family or friends of people who have died in prison, in police custody, in immigration or mental health detention. They can help you navigate next steps, understand the inquest process and explore options for legal representation. You can refer yourself for support using their help and advice form, or they run their own helpline Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-1pm, 2pm-3:30pm that is contactable at 020 7263 1111.
Culturally Specific & Sensitive Services
The Muslim Women’s Network Helpline;
Offers culturally sensitive and specialist faith advice, support, information and referrals, primarily to muslim women. They cover a range of issues including forced marriage, domestic abuse, stalking, anxiety, self-harm and loneliness.
https://www.mwnhelpline.co.uk/index.php
The Muslim Youth Helpline:
Offers faith and culturally sensitive advice to young people in the muslim community. Young people can call about any issue causing distress, or that they are seeking support with.
Sistah Space:
Delivers support services to women of African and Caribbean heritage, effected by domestic and sexual abuse, including group counselling, advocacy, professional advice, workshops and more.
Sharan:
Delivers services to South Asian women who have been disowned, or at risk of being disowned due to abuse or persecution. A range of services are available including 1-2-1 crisis intervention, employability support and online resources. An information line is contactable at 0844 504 3231.
Breaking The Silence:
A specialist charity delivering services to South Asian and Black males, who have experienced abuse or trauma. Services available include online counselling. They provide support in English, Urdu and Punjabi. If you need help you can contact them at 01274 497 535, by using the email info@breaking-the-silence.org.uk, or by completing the self-referral form found on their website.
https://www.breaking-the-silence.org.uk
The Traveller Movement:
An organisation known for advocating for Romani Gypsy, Roma and Irish Traveller people. They work to tackle discrimination, promote equality, deliver services and offer advice to women and girls within the traveller community, who have experienced domestic or sexual violence. All projects are run by or with Irish Traveller women who have lived experience of domestic violence. You can call 020 7607 2002 to be put through to a women’s worker, who can offer help and make referrals for support.
https://travellermovement.org.uk/domestic-abuse-and-sexual-violence
Bawso:
A charity that delivers support services for Black and Minority Ethnicity individuals across Wales who have experienced or at risk of domestic abuse, sexual violence, FGM, forced marriage, honour based violence, modern slavery and human trafficking. Services are varied and include help to maintain tenancies, facilitating access to refuges or safehouses and supporting clients in preparing for and finding work. Bawso runs a 24/7 helpline through which help can be requested, that is contactable at 0800 731 8147 or by emailing referrals@bawso.org.uk. A referral form is also available for professionals.
Support For Sex Workers
National Ugly Mugs:
Work to increase the safety of sex workers and prevent harms against the population. They deliver services and offer resources, information and safety tools to anyone involved in the sex work industry.
Beyond The Streets:
Focus on raising public awareness of the sex industry and tackling harmful myths about the industry, whilst delivering direct support services and offering information and guidance to those involved in sex work.
https://beyondthestreets.org.uk/
Support For Care Experienced People
Become charity:
Delivers free services to care experienced young people in the UK, focused on helping them to move forward in their education or careers and to thrive. The charity also runs a care advice helpline, Monday-Friday 10am-5pm that is contactable at 0800 023 2033 or by using the online form.
Who Cares Scotland:
An organisation that works with care experienced young people in Scotland, making sure they are respected and included, and supporting them to have their voice and opinions heard. The organisation's primary offer is independent advocacy support for young people still living in care, this service can help young people understand their rights, encourage them to express their views, support them to prepare for meetings and assist in making a complaint. A self-referral form for this service is available through the website. Additionally they run a helpline that is contactable at 0330 107 7540 Monday-Friday 12pm-4pm, by emailing help@whocaresscotland.org or by using the contact form on the website.
https://www.whocaresscotland.org
Republic of Ireland
Victim & Witness Services
The Garda:
Created this informational page, explaining how their victim service works and what you can expect from the service. A directory of other organisations that can support those impacted by crime in Ireland is also available through the website
https://www.garda.ie/en/victim-services/garda-victim-service/
Accompaniment Support Services for Children (ASSC):
An organisation providing assistance to young people and their families that are having to navigate the criminal justice system in Ireland. They can accompany young people to court at various stages of a trial, run a phone based listening and emotional support service for adults supporting a young person, and have created digital resources for young people and adults. Self-referrals are accepted as well as professional referrals and can be done through the website.
Victim Support at Court (V-SAC):
Ireland’s only organisation providing free assistance and court accompaniment to adult victims or witnesses of a crime, navigating the criminal justice system. They can arrange for a pre-trial visit to allow you to see and familiarise yourself with the court layout, accompany you to court throughout the trial and give you information on what to expect from the trial process. They can also liaise with the court or garda on any special support you may need to give evidence such as an interpreter. To request assistance you can contact V-SAC by calling 01-872-6785/087-288-5521 or by emailing manager@vsac.ie
The Crime Victims Helpline:
A free national helpline for people in Ireland who have been impacted or victimised by crime of all types, whenever it happened and regardless of if it has been reported or not. The helpline is contactable at 116 006 Monday-Thursday 10am-7:30pm, Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 2pm-4pm, by texting 085 133 7711 or by using the email form on the website. They can answer your questions about the court and justice systems, explain your rights and signpost you to other relevant and helpful services.
https://www.crimevictimshelpline.ie
Gender-Based, Sexual & Family Violence
The Department Of Justice, Home Affairs And Migration:
Created this informational page on topics relating to sexual and domestic violence, including what the victims' charter is, how to safety plan and what to expect from the criminal trial process. A directory of support services and helplines is also available through the website.
Rape Crisis Ireland:
Delivers services to victims and survivors of all forms of sexual violence including information and help on reporting assault and counselling services. They also run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1800 778888.
https://www.rapecrisisireland.ie
Women's Aid Ireland:
Delivers services to women experiencing domestic violence and abuse, including those trying to leave abuse. Services include one to one sessions with a support worker, drop in sessions and advocacy support. They also run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1800 341 900, available in 240 languages.
Men’s Aid Ireland:
Delivers support services to males experiencing domestic violence and/or coercive control in their relationships. They organise a monthly peer support group in Navan, County Meath, have court clinics and online information to help you understand court orders, can provide counselling and run a national helpline that is contactable at 01 554 3811 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm or by emailing Hello@mensaid.ie
One In Four:
A national charity working to tackle and end childhood sexual abuse in Ireland. They deliver direct support services to adult survivors including counselling, guidance and assistance from the advocacy team to report historic abuse or complete victim impact statements, pre-trial support and court accompaniment. To discuss or request services you can call 01 66 24070 or email info@oneinfour.ie
The Men’s Development Network:
A national organisation promoting men’s and boys' engagement in their health, wellbeing, gender equality and ending gender-based violence. They run a range of programmes including ‘Men Ending Domestic Abuse’ (MEND) which supports men to take accountability and end their violent or abusive behaviour, the male support line for men experiencing domestic violence that is contactable at 1800 816 588 Monday-Friday 10 am-8pm or Saturday- Sunday 2pm-8pm and On Feirm Ground 2 a farmers health training programme. You can self-refer or register for the programmes through the website.
Victims Of Homicide & Manslaughter
Advocates For Victims Of Homicide:
A national organisation delivering a range of practical, informational and emotional support services to those traumatised and bereaved by homicide, including relatives and friends. Services are varied but can include providing booklets explaining different elements of the criminal justice system, assistance completing forms or drafting emails, legal advice, child and adolescent counselling and group therapy. You can access services and become a member using the form on the website, you can also request counselling services specifically by calling (01) 518 0816 or you can email to request access to support and services using info@advic.ie
Support After Homicide Ireland:
A national organisation delivering free, confidential support services to those bereaved or otherwise impacted by homicide. They can offer practical information as well as peer support groups and one to one emotional support. To request support you can call 087 983 7322 or email support@supportafterhomicide.ie
https://supportafterhomicide.ie
Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking & Torture
The Department Of Justice, Home Affairs And Migration:
Created this informational page on topics related to human trafficking, including the signs to look for and how to report suspicions of human trafficking. A directory of support services provided by the department, and community services is also available through the website.
Missing And Unidentified Persons
Missing Persons Ireland:
A national charity offering information and guidance, providing assistance and delivering support services to the families of missing people in Ireland. They run a helpline that is contactable at 1800 442 552, organise family peer support meetings, and maintain a list of other helpful organisations.
Restoring Family Links:
A scheme managed by the red cross that provides assistance to people in locating family members whose whereabouts are unknown or where contact has been lost. This service is primarily aimed at families separated by migration, war or natural disasters, rather than cases of missing people where foul play is suspected or possible. For more information or to access the self referral form, visit the website which is linked below.
https://www.redcross.ie/find-missing-family/
The Missing Children's Hotline:
A free 24/7 hour hotline run by The Irish Society for the prevention of cruelty to children, that is contactable at 116 000. They can give advice or offer emotional support to both adults and children on any topic, concern or question relating to missing children. The general public can use the hotline as well as family members of missing children and missing children themselves.
https://www.ispcc.ie/missing-childrens-hotline/
Child Abuse & Exploitation
Children At Risk In Ireland (CARI):
A charity that delivers therapy services to children who have been impacted by sexual abuse, and children up to the age of 12 that are displaying sexually harmful behaviour. A range of other services are also delivered to parents, families and professionals that are concerned about or impacted by child sexual abuse. They run a helpline that is contactable at 0818 924567, Monday-Thursday 10am-2pm.
Online Safety, Online Harm & Illegal Content
The Irish Internet Hotline:
Allows users across the republic of Ireland to report illegal or harmful content on social media platforms or other areas of the internet. Reports that the platform can handle and submit are those concerning online child sexual abuse material, online child sexual exploitation, revenge porn and intimate images shared without consent, racism or xenophobia, and financial scams purporting to be Irish financial services or otherwise appearing to originate in Ireland. You can make reports using the online form or by using the report line that is contactable at +353 86 8116273.
Webwise;
The Irish internet safety awareness centre. They create and deliver a range of resources, tools and materials for parents, schools and young people on online safety and digital citizenship. The resources, tools and materials and tools are free, accessible through the website and include informational guides/booklets, educational videos and curriculum lessons.
Grief & Bereavement
The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust:
Provides assistance to families in repatriating the body of their loved one back to Ireland, when they died in sudden or tragic circumstances, The trust can assist financially, as well as giving practical advice or guidance on arranging repatriation. To request assistance you can use the contact form on the website or call +44 (0) 28 3083 3311.
Support For Sex Workers
Ruhama:
A national charity helping women in Ireland impacted by prostitution, sex trafficking, and all other forms of sexual exploitation. They can help with a range of areas and needs including accessing housing, providing sexual health packs, harm reduction advice, counselling and psychotherapy, tutoring and assistance to exit prostitution. All services are free and confidential, you do not need to speak English or have a visa to use them nor is it a requirement to want to exit prostitution. To request help the charity is contactable at 1800 02 02 02 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm or you can text REACH to 50100.
Support For Care Experienced Youth
Empowering People In Care (EPIC):
A charitable organisation working with children and young people currently living in care settings (including foster care, residential care and youth detention) or who are care experienced up to the age of 26. They offer free and confidential advocacy support through their national advocacy service, which can help you with a range of things including understanding your rights, making a complaint, accessing information or answers to questions you may have or representing you at meetings. You can directly request an advocate through the website. They also have a youth council providing opportunities to work on campaigns and projects seeking to improve outcomes and make the care system in Ireland better.
United States Of America
Victim & Witness Services
The Office For Victims Of Crime:
Created this free searchable directory of services available to victims. You can filter your search according to location, crime type and type of service, and find local and national services, from counselling to legal assistance and interpretation services.
https://ovc.ojp.gUv/directory-crime-victim-services
The National Association Of Crime Victim Compensation Boards:
Created this website to share information about the crime victim compensation programme. It covers what the programme is and how it works, eligibility criteria, what compensation can cover. It also outlines how to contact your local compensation programme.
The National Center For Victims Of Crime:
A dedicated organisation supporting anyone victimised or impacted by violent crime. A range of digital resources are available including a victims rights brochure and a guide on interacting with the media. They also run the VictimConnect 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 855-484-2846 or by texting the same number, and is available in 200+ languages.
Advocacy Conference:
An annual conference bringing together experts, non profit charities, families of missing and murdered individuals and advocates. It is a weekend long event and aims to provide opportunities for education, connection and collaboration between families and others fighting for justice. Although the conference is not free, the organisers work hard through the impact advocacy foundation to raise the funds to offer scholarships to families who would otherwise not be able to attend.
Haley Gray:
A credentialed victim advocate who specialises in supporting families navigating missing persons or unresolved crime cases. She has extensive experience in the field and can confidently and professionally work with families to create effective advocacy campaigns, create awareness materials and coordinate media outreach. Haley also has a particular speciality in educating the public, journalists, aspiring researchers and content creators on how to handle and cover cases ethically and with respect and dignity, avoiding sensationalism or headlines that retraumatise families. She does this through her range of true crime research training courses, speaking arrangements at conferences and hosting webinars. A free resource created by Haley and the parents of Morgan Patten, the advocacy blueprint can be found through the website, providing a wealth of useful tips, guidance, information and ideas.
https://haleygrayresearch.com/
Fire-Eyes Media:
A podcast network founded by survivor and investigative journalist Jen Rivera, and fellow advocate Jules Thorp. The network focuses on ethical reporting and has produced a number of true crime podcasts including Missing In Hush town, In Esto and Secrets Beyond The Sacramento River. Jen also separately created non profit charity The Reignited Project providing a range of assistance and support to victims and family advocates, including digital tools such as website creation, organising donation drives, creating missing persons flyers, and referrals to partner organisations. A link to the reignited project website with full information on services and the non-profits mission can be found on the fire-eyes website.
Gender-Based, Sexual & Family Violence
RAINN:
A national charity working to stop sexual violence by supporting survivors, holding perpetrators accountable and creating safer communities. They run a 24/7 sexual assault helpline, that is contactable at 800-656-HOPE, by texting HOPE to 64673 or by wechat and is available in all areas of the United States. The helpline can give you information on your state laws, make referrals to long term services and offer resources. Moderated group chats are also available for 14-24 year old survivors of sexual violence.
Domestic Shelters:
An online database of domestic abuse shelters and programmes in the United States, searchable by city or zip code. They have also created a range of resources and information pages such as planning for pet safety or the gray rock communication method.
https://www.domesticshelters.org/
The Elizabeth Smart Foundation:
A survivor led organisation with a focus on personal safety, supporting survivors and fighting to end sexual violence. They run self defence classes for children and adults, and offer a support fund handing out small grants to survivors of violence aged 18+ in the United States.
https://www.elizabethsmartfoundation.org/
Victims Of Homicide & Manslaughter
Season Of Justice:
A non profit charity that delivers financial grants to investigators and families, to assist with progressing investigations and closing cases. They currently offer two grants, the DNA testing grant which funds DNA analysis solutions for unsolved violent crimes, and the public awareness campaign grant which covers the cost of billboards and similar awareness materials.
Angels’ Voices Silenced No More:
A New Mexico based charity that delivers financial grants to assist family advocates by funding such things as billboards, private investigations and funeral expenses. They can also signpost families and connect them to other organisations and services from specialised therapy to support groups.
https://www.angelsvoicesnm.org/
Missing & Unidentified Persons
The National Centre For Missing And Exploited Children (NCMEC):
Focuses on tackling child exploitation, recovering missing children and preventing abductions. They carry out a number of projects including coordinating awareness campaigns, creating materials such as missing flyers, delivering forensic services to law enforcement and much more. They also deliver some services to survivors of abuse or exploitation. If your child is missing, you have information about or believe you have seen a missing child, or wish to access victim services, you can contact NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678.)
https://www.missingkids.org/home
Private Investigations For The Missing:
Provide no cost, expert investigative services and resources to families with a missing person, particularly where the case is older or ‘cold’ and receiving less attention, or the official investigation has stalled. The team working at Private Investigations For The Missing are qualified and well experienced professionals in the field, such as detectives and prosecutors.
https://www.investigationsforthemissing.org/
The Polly Klaas Foundation:
Supports families impacted by missing children cases, delivering services to help them cope emotionally, whilst providing practical, digital and on the ground assistance in recovering missing or abducted children. This includes creating flyers, forwarding tips to law enforcement and providing counsel on the best ways to search for a child. They also run a 24 helpline that is contactable at 800-587-4357.
The National Missing And Unidentified Persons System (NAMUS):
A national, online database compiling cases of missing and unidentified persons across the USA. The database exists to aid investigators and potentially families, in comparing cases and identifying potential matches between missing people and John or Jane Does, by providing one centralised location to search. The database covers all 50 states and can be used for free by individuals, you don't have to be a law enforcement official to use it.
The Morgan Nick Foundation:
Provides immediate and ongoing assistance to the families of missing children in Arkansas, as well as creating educational resources focused on online safety and empowering children to protect themselves. Assistance for the families of the missing include on-site support from search and rescue workers, printing and distributing flyers and liaising between families and law enforcement or the media.
https://morgannickfoundation.com/
The National Runaway Safeline:
A 24/7 helpline for youth who have run away, are in crisis or otherwise are in a difficult situation, that is contactable at 1-800-RUNAWAY. They can support you to access resources, safety plan or return home.
The Bethany Markowski Foundation (founded in honour of Bethany Markowski, missing since 2001):
Exists to prevent any parent facing the pain of having a missing child alone. They deliver public safety education, coordinate community searches, provide child ID kits and deliver direct services to families of missing children. Every year on the anniversary of Bethany’s disappearance, the foundation hosts Tennessee Missing Children's Day, a free community event raising awareness of missing children in the state of Tennessee. Free fingerprinting is offered too.
Black And Missing:
A missing persons charity with a special focus on improving awareness, coverage and support in cases of missing people of colour, a group commonly neglected in media reporting, by law enforcement and overlooked by communities or advocates. They work to increase public awareness of missing people of colour, offer vital resources or tools and deliver personal safety education. They also maintain a database of missing cases, and have a digital tip reporting page.
https://www.blackandmissinginc.com/
Texas EquuSearch:
A search and rescue/search and recovery organisation, providing free assistance to law enforcement and families searching for missing people and unrecovered murder victims, across the USA and even abroad. They can conduct ground searches or by using sonar, ground penetrating radar, boats, aircraft, drones and ATV’s.
The Trans Doe Task Force:
A non profit organisation that identifies and researches cases of LGBTQ+ missing and murdered individuals, with a particular focus on unidentified individuals who may have been transgender. They also educate the public, media and forensic professionals about the needs of trans doe cases, and provide assistance to law enforcement, medical examiners and forensic anthropologists in accessing genetic genealogy. A secure database of cases is available to law enforcement, to hopefully aid in matching up cases, members of the public can also submit potential cases of trans or lgbtq+ does, or family can share details of a missing lgbtq+ missing person through the website.
https://transdoetaskforce.org/index.php
Light The Way:
Provides assistance to those navigating unsolved cases with trauma-informed support and guidance. They focus on reuniting missing people and their families, whilst improving public awareness of the cases they are involved with. Some of the projects and services that have been delivered by Light The Way include coordinating ground searches, creating and distributing missing person flyers, organising fundraising events and securing funding for billboards.
https://www.lightthewaymissing.com/
The AWARE Foundation:
Is focused on delivering direct support and advocacy services to the families of missing persons or unsolved homicide victims. They can use social media to generate awareness of your loved ones' case, distribute flyers and connect you to resources or agencies such as search and rescue teams.
https://www.theawarefoundationofvirginia.com/
Evaporate:
An advocacy focused online blog covering long-term missing persons or unsolved homicide cases. Evaporate also has social media platforms, used to increase public awareness of cases. The owner of Evaporate, Brandie has lived experience of a missing loved one, providing additional understanding and expertise to their work.
https://www.evaporatethemissing.com/
Child Abuse & Exploitation
Child Help:
A free 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 800-422- 4453 or by webchat, for anyone concerned about child abuse. They can guide you through the process of making a report, give information on the child welfare service, deliver counselling services and more. The helpline does not require you to provide identifying information. Free digital resources and information pages are also available on the website.
The Jacob Wetterling Resource Center:
A Minnesota based program within the wider organisation, Zero Abuse Project. If you live in Minnesota they can deliver victim assistance and related services including advocacy for those supporting a child being abused, family safety planning and signposting to your local child protection agency. They can also deliver education and offer resources on recognising potential abuse, online safety and safety skills for children.
https://zeroabuseproject.org/victim-assistance/jwrc/
Darkness To Light:
An organisation focused on the prevention of child sexual abuse and building prevention oriented communities through education, awareness and stigma reduction. They deliver low cost training programmes with the aim of empowering adults to prevent, recognise and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. These programmes include the award winning, evidence informed training, Stewards of Children, teaching practical actions that can be taken to reduce instances of child sexual abuse in organisations, families and communities.
Take It Down:
A NCMEC programme providing assistance to anyone under the age of 18, who wishes to have a nude or sexually explicit photo of themselves removed from the internet. You can access the service anonymously if you would prefer.
Mental Health Support & Suicide Prevention
Sandy Hook Promise:
Creates and delivers educational, evidence informed programmes for schools, parents and youth organisations. These programs address bullying and suicide prevention, recognising violence and how to share concerns, reducing social isolation, youth leadership and building positive school climates. They also maintain a directory, signposting to helpful organisations for those who have survived gun violence.
https://www.sandyhookpromise.org/
998:
The national 24/7 crisis helpline for anyone struggling, whether you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, experiencing addiction or just going through a tough time and need a listening ear. Text and chat options are available and deaf or hard of hearing users can contact 998 through videophone.
Project LETS:
A mental health charity focused on anti-carceral peer and crisis support. They run a variety of programmes and projects including a network of crisis response providers serving as an alternative to calling 911, training and workshops, and advocacy for people currently experiencing psychiatric incarceration or at risk of this.
Don’t Call The Police:
An online database of community based resources that can act as alternatives to calling 911. Particularly for situations where it is known that the police often escalate a situation or cause more harm than good. The database is free to access and broken down by area.
https://dontcallthepolice.com/
Warmlines:
Are an alternative to crisis helplines, they differ based on the fact that they are staffed by volunteers with lived experience of mental illness. They also prioritise making the service completely confidential and follow a consensual, non-coercive model which removes the threat or fear of institutionalisation, making them more accessible to many communities who have historically experienced disproportionate use of force. This is an online database of warm lines across the country, searchable by state.
Give Us The Floor: an app based peer support network for young people in the LGBTQ+ community, supporting each other emotionally and creating a space for connection and belonging. The service is free and available to anyone aged between 13 and 24, wherever you are in the US.
Trans Lifeline: a helpline for trans and questioning people, run by trans peers that is contactable at 877-565-8860. The service is confidential, can be accessed anonymously, and avoids non-consensual active rescue, for example calling 911. They also offer some free online resources.
Culturally Specific & Sensitive Services
Stronghearts Native Helpline:
A specialist 24/7 domestic and sexual violence hotline, for those of Native American or Native Alaskan heritage, that is contactable at 1-844-762-8483. The helpline can help you access a range of direct support and advocacy services, including peer support, personalised safety planning and referrals to other services.
https://strongheartshelpline.org/
Not Our Native Daughters:
A survivor-led organisation serving the Native and Indigenous community in the United States, whilst raising awareness of the missing and murdered indigenous women crisis, advocating for justice and supporting those impacted by violence. They deliver a youth voices program, giving indigenous youth leadership opportunities, empowering them to reclaim their connections to the land and teaching outdoor skills. The MMIWR Family Liaison programme can organise services including travel assistance, court accompaniment and healing support for families dealing with recent or active cases.
https://notournativedaughters.org/
Support For Care Experienced Youth
Fosterclub:
A national network for youth in foster care, or foster care experienced young adults. The network is accessible through an app or a computer and offers peer support chats, stories and wins from other young people who have been through foster care, information on helpful programs, tools and tips, access to events and more. Fosterclub also offers lived experience leadership opportunities, giving youth space to use their voice, participate in designing and evaluating policies and contribute to reform of the child welfare system.
Treehouse For Kids:
A non profit organisation in Washington State working to meet the financial, educational and material needs of children and young people in foster care, through several specific and targeted programmes. These include Launch Success, supporting high school graduates to transition into adulthood successfully and maintain stability by assigning a work coach and offering individualised support such as creating a resume, teaching about money and applying for funding for expenses such as bus passes or work equipment. Holiday magic which provides one meaningful holiday gift to youth in foster care, and the treehouse shop which foster youth and foster parents can use to obtain high quality clothing, books, school supplies and toys for free. Referrals must be made by DCYF social workers, court appointed special advocates or guardian ad litem, school district and school staff members, attorneys representing youth or tribal or federal foster care caseworkers, and can be made through the website.
https://www.treehouseforkids.org
Canada
Victim & Witness Services
The Canadian Resource Centre For Victims Of Crime:
A national organisation delivering a range of services, covering practical, legal and emotional needs for victims of crime. These services are varied but include advocacy, counselling, securing emergency shelter, speaking to the media and a peer support group for those bereaved by homicide. The organisation is contactable at 1-877-232-2610, by texting 618-208-0747 or by using the webchat.
Crimestoppers:
An organisation focused on promoting crime reporting, through anonymous tip lines and the organisation of cash rewards, for information that leads to charges or successfully assists investigations, in a previously unsolved crime. You can submit a tip online or through the toll free number that is contactable at 1-800-222-TIPS.
https://www.canadiancrimestoppers.org/index.php
Victimlink BC:
A 24/7 helpline supporting all crime victims in British Columbia and the Yukon, that is contactable at 1-800-563-0808 or by emailing 211-VictimLinkBC@uwbc.ca. The helpline is available in up to 150 languages.
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/victims-of-crime/victimlinkbc
The Canadian Government:
Produced this page covering the services, programs and resources available, pertaining to cold cases, missing persons and victims of homicide.
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/police/crime-and-crime-prevention/cold-cases.html
Gender-Based, Family & Sexual Violence
The Assaulted Women's Helpline :
An Ontario based 24/7 helpline for all women who have been abused, that is contactable at 1-866-863-0511 and available in 200+ languages. Women who call the helpline can access crisis counselling, information and referrals.
The Gatehouse:
Delivers trauma-informed programs and peer support services to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Services are available to all genders, and across all areas of Canada. Please note that the services all have a fee, which can be found on the website.
REES:
An organisation supporting survivors of sexual abuse, and working to make society a better place for survivors. They maintain an interactive map database of sexual assault centres and similar services, across Canada.
https://www.reescommunity.com/
Shelter Safe:
An online, interactive database resource for women and children seeking refuge or safety from abuse and violence. Using the resource you can locate the nearest emergency shelters, as well as 24/7 emergency numbers and crisis lines.
The BC Society For Male Survivors Of Sexual Abuse:
Deliver counselling and advocacy services to males who have experienced sexual abuse. These are paid for services, but funding may be available through crime compensation schemes.
Victims Of Homicide & Manslaughter
The Association Of Families Of Murdered Or Missing Persons (AFPAD):
A Quebec based charity, delivering services to those families impacted by the homicide or disappearance of a relative. Services can include access to a support group, financial support, workshops focused on mental and physical health and signposting to other appropriate organisations. A toll free number is contactable at 1-855-770-0404.
The British Columbia Bereavement helpline, (that is contactable at 604-738-9950):
Deliver services to those bereaved in specific circumstances, including by homicide or suicide. These include peer support groups and drop in sessions.
Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking & Torture
The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline:
A 24/7 hotline that is contactable at 1-833-900-1010, serving those being trafficked, that know someone who is or have survived trafficking. They can help you explore options, offer safety advice and signpost you to appropriate services.
https://www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca
Bridgenorth:
A survivor-led organisation, fighting to end sexual exploitation in Canada. Alongside educating the public and conducting advocacy at state and federal level, Bridgenorth delivers direct services to survivors of trafficking and exploitation, including peer mentorship and exit services. You can request more information, or request services using the forms provided on the website.
Missing & Unidentified Persons
The Missing Children Society Of Canada:
Is dedicated to raising awareness and resolving cases of missing children across the country. They search for missing children, whilst providing assistance to law enforcement and delivering support services to families. If you have information on a missing child or another urgent query, there is a toll free number contactable at 1-800-661-6160.
The Canadian Centre For Information On Missing Adults:
An online service offering free informational guides and advice, on all topics and questions relating to missing adults. The aim of the service is to help families or friends know their rights, understand legal terms or processes they may encounter and learn new or more effective ways of advocating for their missing adult.
Please Bring Me Home:
An organisation dedicated to reuniting the missing with their families and providing practical assistance in missing person cases. They can conduct interviews, mobilise trained search teams, and carry out background checks. They also run an anonymous tip line that is contactable at 1-(226) -702-2728. https://pleasebringmehome.com
Canada Unsolved:
An investigative blog covering Canada’s unsolved missing persons, homicide and cold cases. You can submit cases through the website, if you know the victim.
https://www.canadaunsolved.com/
Missing Kids Canada:
A charity delivering services to families and parents of children who are missing. The services depend on the specific circumstances of each case but can include liaising with other agencies, distributing a missing child alert and offering advice on using media to raise awareness about your child. The charity also maintains a missing child database, a tip reporting line and runs a helpline that is contactable at 1-866-543-8477.
Restoring Family Links:
A scheme managed by the Canadian Red Cross that provides assistance to people in locating family members whose whereabouts are unknown or where contact has been lost. This service is primarily aimed at families separated by migration, war or natural disasters, rather than cases of missing people where foul play is suspected or possible. For more information or to access the self referral form, visit the website which is linked below.
https://www.redcross.ca/how-we-help/restoring-family-links-find-family
The National Runaway Switchboard:
A 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1-800-RUNAWAY, for young people that have runaway, are considering doing so, or are supporting someone that has, and parents or teachers supporting a young person considering running away. They deliver comprehensive services and offer information.
https://homelesshub.ca/resource/national-runaway-switchboard/
Operation Come Home:
A charity working with homeless and at risk youth, delivering services including alternative education models, case management for substance abuse and help securing employment. They also deliver a service called reunite, assisting runaway youth who wish to return to their families, call 1-800-668-4663 or email reunite@operationcomehome.ca for more information.
https://www.operationcomehome.ca
Child Abuse & Exploitation
The Canadian Centre For Child Protection:
A national charity that works to reduce the abuse and exploitation of children, educate the public on abuse and prevent child victimisation. On the website a range of informational pages, resources and links to relevant organisations are available, covering topics such as identifying child abuse, healthy relationships, consent and personal safety.
https://www.protectchildren.ca/en/
Little Warriors:
Provide specialised treatment programmes and online support to children and teens who have experienced sexual abuse. Including the Be Brave Ranch, an intensive, trauma informed programme that focuses on building resilience and restoring trust, combining therapy with recreation activities. Applications are accepted from across Canada and can be made by parents or carers, as well as professionals.
Kids Help Phone:
A 24/7 digital mental health service for young people, wherever they are in Canada. They deliver a range of services including information guides, crisis support by call or text and support forums, covering issues and topics ranging from suicide, to online safety, foster care, war and conflict and anxiety. If you need support call 1-800-668-6868, text 686868 or use the webchat.
Needhelpnow:
Supports anyone under 18, who is concerned that an inappropriate or nude image of themselves is being shared online. They can guide you through your rights, explore steps to regain control and provide assistance to make a report.
Online Safety, Online Harm & Illegal Content
Cybertip Canada:
A national tip line for reporting online sexual exploitation or abuse of children, that is contactable at 1-866-658-9022 or you can report using the online form. Although it is encouraged to provide contact details when you report, in the event follow up is required, it is not mandatory and anonymous reporting is possible.
Mental Health Support & Suicide Prevention
988:
Canada’s national suicide crisis helpline number, operating across the country. The helpline is open 24/7, with a text option also available.
The Lynwood Charlton Centre:
Delivers a range of mental health services for children and youth up to the age of 18 in the Hamilton area, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The services provided include intensive live in treatment programs, counselling and a community arts, garden and play program.
Culturally Specific & Sensitive Services
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society:
Delivers culturally grounded services for survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Services are varied and cover a range of areas but include counselling, spiritual guidance or ceremonies and assistance with financial settlement applications. Additionally specific services are offered to families affected by the MMIWG crisis, and the society runs a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1-800-721-0066.
Talk 4 Healing:
A 24/7 helpline run by the Anishinabe Women’s Crisis Home & Family Healing Agency that is contactable at 1-888-200-9997. The helpline specialises in supporting Indigenous women in Canada, whether they need mental health support or real world solutions to difficult solutions.
The Black Youth Helpline:
A specialist helpline that is contactable at 1-833-294-8650, supporting a range of issues. The helpline serves all youth in Canada but has a particular focus on those who would benefit from culturally relevant perspectives, understanding and knowledge.
Support For Sex Workers
Maggies:
A Toronto and Greater Toronto Area based organisation, delivering services and offering information and advice to those involved in the sex work industry. The organisations work focuses around promoting the rights of those in sex work, whilst increasing safety and dignity, and most of the services offered focus on these ideas also. Such services include support with budgeting or safety planning, assistance to access post-secondary education, harm reduction clinics and social events.
https://www.maggiestoronto.org
Australia
Victim & Witness Services
Crime stoppers:
An organisation focused on promoting crime reporting, through anonymous tip lines and the potential organisation of cash rewards, for information that leads to progress in an unsolved case. You can submit a tip at 1800 333 000, or by using the online form which will direct you to your local crimestoppers branch.
The Witness Assistance Service:
Helps and supports adults and children who are victims, family members or witnesses for the prosecution in serious criminal cases and are considered vulnerable. They can deliver a range of support services including general case updates, arranging a tour of the court, advising you on court behaviour and etiquette and guiding you through preparing a victim impact statement. Similar, region specific services are available in parts of Australia including Western Australia, the details of which should be discoverable with a simple google search.
Gender-Based, Sexual & Family Violence
1800respect:
A 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1800 737 732, by texting 0458 737 732 or by using the webchat, for people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. They can help you explore options, identity appropriate services, and phone counselling is available too.
The Alison Baden Clay Foundation:
Aims to educate communities and individuals on the issues of family and domestic abuse, through a mixture of training, free online resources and campaigns. They also hope to empower individuals to intervene and aid in the prevention of violence or abuse.
https://www.allisonbadenclayfoundation.org.au
Victims of Homicide & Manslaughter
Queensland Homicide Victims Support Group:
Deliver support services to those bereaved by homicide in the Queensland area, covering family support, education, peer support, court assistance and advocacy. Support is 24/7 and the services available include referrals to psychologists, providing assistance with victim impact statements, providing a dedicated court liaison, information sessions, social events and more.
The Homicide Victims Support Group Australia:
Delivers support services to those bereaved by homicide in the New South Wales area. They organise free residential therapeutic weekends, peer support groups and counselling is available. They also run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 1800 191 777.
Grace’s Place:
A world first specialist residential centre for children and young people who have experienced the trauma of homicide bereavement. They arrange counselling, specific therapies and activities. The centre is contactable 24 hours a day and family accommodation is available. They also run a 24 hour helpline that is contactable at 1800 191 777.
Australian Femicide Watch:
A digital memorial and tracking tool of every known woman and child in Australia killed by murder, manslaughter or neglect. The red heart movement, the organisation who created and maintains the memorial, also delivers direct services to those impacted by the homicide or manslaughter of a friend or relative. These services include peer support and advice via phone call, face to face meetings or a closed facebook group.
https://australianfemicidewatch.org
Missing & Unidentified Persons
The Missed Foundations:
A specialist organisation delivering a range of free services to families who have a long-term missing person, covering both practical and emotional needs. Services available include creating age progression images, designing materials such as billboards or flyers and pro bono legal or investigative support. Digital resources are also available.
Leave A Light On:
A social-media based charity that aims to raise awareness of long term missing persons in Australia, and the need for better ongoing support for those families dealing with ambiguous loss. The charity was created by Suzie Ratcliffe whose sister Joanne Ratcliffe went missing from Adelaide in 1973, providing valuable lived experience and expertise to their work, however the focus remains advocating for all missing Australians.
https://www.facebook.com/LeaveALightOninc
The National Missing Persons Coordination Centre:
A branch of the Australian federal police, focused on reducing the incidence of missing persons in Australia and raising public awareness of such cases. Through the website you can report someone missing, report a sighting, access information and access a directory of support services. They do not provide direct services to families or victims.
https://www.missingpersons.gov.au
Restoring Family Links:
A scheme managed by the Australian Red Cross that provides assistance to people in locating family members whose whereabouts are unknown or where contact has been lost. This service is primarily aimed at families separated by migration, war or natural disasters, rather than cases of missing people where foul play is suspected or possible. For more information or to access the self referral form, visit the website which is linked below.
https://www.redcross.org.au/migration/find-my-family-restoring-family-links/
The Australian Missing Persons Register:
A non profit organisation that maintains a digital record of long term missing children and adults across Australia, and aims to increase public awareness of long term missing persons cases.
https://australianmissingpersonsregister.com
The International Social Service Australia:
Delivers social work and legal services to children and families, separated by international borders. A range of situations and needs are covered, including cases of international parental abduction for which they can arrange counselling, support inter-country contact and make referrals to local services, and more.
Child Abuse & Exploitation
Act For Kids:
Delivers therapeutic, family and educational services to children who have been impacted by trauma, abuse and harm, and their families. The services are available across Australia and cover a range of approaches and specialisms to meet different needs.
Bravehearts:
A charity working to prevent childhood sexual abuse, whilst delivering support services to child and adult survivors of abuse. They can deliver counselling in the Queensland area, provide assistance in making a claim to the national redress scheme, and an intervention scheme is available to young people engaging in or at risk of engaging in harmful sexual behaviours. Bravehearts also run a helpline that is contactable at 1800 272 831, offering advice and information relating to child sexual abuse.
The Alannah And Madeline Foundation:
Is focused on strengthening the right of children in Australia to live a life free from violence and trauma. They deliver services and organise projects supporting children who have been impacted by trauma, create resources on digital safety for schools and families and advocate at the government level to improve and shape policy. The services and projects available include free buddy bags for children taken into foster care and the cubbyhouse- a specially designed therapeutic space for children attending Broadmeadows and Melbourne children's courts.
https://www.alannahandmadeline.org.au/
Kids helpline:
A free and confidential 24/7 helpline for children aged 5 to 25 that is contactable at 1800 55 1800 or by webchat. The helpline is available across all areas of Australia, and can arrange translation or interpretation services when needed. Self-help and information resources are also offered on the website.
Online Safety, Online Harm & Illegal Content
The Australian Centre To Counter Child Exploitation:
A police run agency that works to prevent and respond to cases of child exploitation. They have created an online reporting page, for anyone who has witnessed the online exploitation of a child, or that is concerned about the behaviour of an adult towards children online. The service is not anonymous and you can report to crimestoppers instead, if you wish to remain as such.
https://www.accce.gov.au/reportonlinechildsexualexploitation
The Daniel Morcombe Foundation:
Creates and delivers free educational resources to schools, parents and anyone working with kids, focused on personal safety and online harms. These resources come in a variety of formats including videos and worksheets, whilst covering a range of age groups.
The Carly Ryan Foundation:
Delivers seminars to students and parents and offers free resources covering online safety, healthy relationships and related topics.
https://www.carlyryanfoundation.com
Concerned About Someone’s Behaviour?
Partner-Speak:
Deliver peer support and advocacy services to the non-offending partners, family members or friends of someone involved in child sexual abuse or accessing child abuse material. Services are free and include a facilitated forum and a support line that is contactable at 1300 590 589.
https://www.partnerspeak.org.au
Mental Health Support & Suicide Prevention
Lifeline:
A national charity working on suicide prevention and crisis support. They run a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 13 11 14, by texting 0477 13 11 14 or by using the webchat. Translation services are available when needed. The charity also delivers counselling to certain groups, runs training courses and offers online information guides.
Culturally Specific & Sensitive Services
The Australian Institute Of Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS):
A government institute celebrating, educating and inspiring people to connect with the knowledge and cultures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders. They work with Link-up to provide family tracing and reunion services to members of the stolen generations nationally. There are local Link-Up organisations in different areas of Australia, to request family tracing services contact your local Link-Up organisation, the details of which are available on the AIATSIS website.
https://aiatsis.gov.au/family-history/you-start/link
Support For Care Experienced People
Find And Connect:
A support service for anyone who spent time in out of home care, or an orphanage in Australia between 1920 and 1990. The service can provide family tracing assistance, help you access counselling and where possible reunite with family. A search tool for records is also available and you can call 1800 16 11 09 to request information on their support services.
https://www.findandconnect.gov.au
New Zealand
Victim & Witness Services
Victim Support New Zealand:
A charity that offers information, emotional support and legal advice to both adults and children aged 16 and above who have experienced or been impacted by crime. Victim Support NZ operates independently from the police and it is not a requirement that the crime has been reported in order to access their support. A helpline is also run by the charity that is contactable at 0800 842 846.
https://www.victimsupport.org.nz/
Crimestoppers New Zealand:
An organisation focused on promoting crime reporting, through anonymous tip lines and the occasional organisation of cash rewards for information in unsolved cases. They hope that by providing anonymous routes for reporting, those who have information on a crime but would otherwise be reluctant to come forward will feel confident enough to do so.
https://www.crimestoppers-nz.org
Gender-Based, Sexual & Family Violence
Rape Prevention Education:
A series of free educational programmes, resources and tools for education settings, youth and professionals aimed at preventing sexual and gender based violence. They cover a range of topics from respectful relationships and consent, dealing with disclosures, to active bystanding. You can access these programmes and resources through the website.
Are You Ok:
An online platform created by the New Zealand Government with information and advice on family violence and all related topics. Videos, informational guides and an online quiz can all be found on the platform, aimed at helping people understand family violence and how to take steps if this is something they are experiencing. A directory of specialist services is also accessible on the website. If you need to speak to someone urgently a 24/7 helpline is contactable at 0800 456 450 or by live chat.
Women's Refuge:
An organisation that helps women and children experiencing domestic or family violence through a national network of refuges. They can also help with accessing healthcare, budgeting, obtaining protection orders and getting basic needs met. The organisation runs a 24/7 helpline that is contactable at 0800 733 843 and through which you can access help. Alternatively you can find the details to contact your local refuge through the website.
Men And Trauma:
A service delivering specialist support from trained professionals to men in New Zealand who have experienced trauma in their life. Help that is available through the service includes 1-1 counselling and peer support groups. These services can be accessed in person, over the phone or online. A direct booking form is accessible through the website or you can contact Men and Trauma by calling 0800 63 62 63 or emailing info@menandtrauma.nz
Safe To Talk:
A 24/7 helpline for anyone who has experienced sexual violence of any form that is contactable at 0800 044 334, by texting 4334, by emailing support@safetotalk.nz or by using the webchat. Anyone can use the helpline regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, and they will also accept calls from anyone worried about their own thoughts or behaviour.
Parent Line:
A charity supporting children who have witnessed domestic or family violence, and their parents or carers. They offer a range of programs including 1:1 counselling, an anger management and education group and a parents group. A referral form is available through the website or you can contact the charity by calling +64 7 839 4536 or emailing parentline@parentline.org.nz
https://www.parentline.org.nz/
Sexual Abuse Support And Healing (SASH):
A community organisation supporting adults, children and family members who have been impacted by sexual assault or rape. They deliver free services to all ages, whether the assault happened recently or is historic and regardless of whether it was reported to the police or not. The services available are varied and some require referrals by health, police or justice professionals but they include access to a dedicated case manager, information on police and court procedures, support and accompaniment when making statements at the police station, 24 hour crisis response, and therapeutic support. You can self refer yourself for services using the referral form on the website, alternatively you can contact SASH by calling 0800 777 929 or emailing sash@sash.co.nz
Missing & Unidentified Persons
Restoring Family Links:
A scheme managed by the red cross that provides assistance to people in locating family members whose whereabouts are unknown or where contact has been lost. This service is primarily aimed at families separated by migration, war or natural disasters, rather than cases of missing people where foul play is suspected or possible. For more information or to access the self referral form, visit the website which is linked below.
https://www.redcross.org.nz/get-help/find-missing-family-overseas
Child Abuse & Exploitation
The Child Abuse Prevention Foundation:
Seeks to protect children from abuse across New Zealand, a range of free resources and factsheets can be found on the website, covering a range of topics around child abuse. Workshops are regularly held with a focus on empowering parents, and the foundation also runs a helpline that is contactable at 0508 100 105.
The Survivors Experience Service:
A government service for anyone who was abused in state or faith based care or similar forms of care such as private schools. They provide a records support service which can assist you with accessing and understanding your care records, including identifying which organisations hold your records and understanding the language used in them. To register with the service and access services including records support you can contact them by calling 0800 456 090, texting 8328 or emailing records2@survivorexperiences.govt.nz
https://survivorexperiences.govt.nz
Online Safety, Online Harm & Illegal Content
Netsafe:
Provides information, advice and education to support young people in having safe and positive online experiences, to know how to use the internet responsibly and to be able to handle concerns effectively. Free informational pages, resources and a webchat can all be found on the netsafe website for young people and parents, carers and educators. A portal to report online harm and illegal content is also available. If you want to talk to someone for advice or support you can contact netsafe by calling 0508 638 723 or texting Netsafe to 4282.
The Department Of Internal Affairs:
Created this digital reporting platform, that can be used to report online child exploitation or sexual abuse material. A full list of what can be reported through the portals, and where you can report other illegal or harmful material can be found on the platform.
https://www.dia.govt.nz/Digital-Safety-Report-Online-Child-Exploitation-material
Support For Care Experienced People
Voices Of Young And Care Experienced- Listen to Me (Voyce- Whakaronga):
An organisation working to champion children and young people in care to ensure they have their voices heard, needs met and rights upheld and are treated with respect. They can connect children, teenagers and young adults with advocates to help them handle issues and have their voice heard on things like contact with siblings, getting pocket money or contacting their social worker. Regular connection events allowing children and young people to meet others in care are also arranged by the organisation. If you are a child or young person in care and wish to have support from Voyce you can contact them by calling 0800 486 923 or emailing contactus@voyce.org.nz
The Ministry Of Children: transition support service:
A programme aiming to help young people aged 15 to 25 who are in the process of transitioning out of care or custody and into adult life. They can help young people with finding a place to live, getting their drivers licence, accessing financial assistance, securing a job, finding counselling services or getting legal advice. If you would like to request access to the service call 0800 55 89 89 or you can contact a social worker.
https://www.orangatamariki.govt.nz/children-in-our-care/transition-support-service/