A Call for Compassion: Supporting Women Seeking Safety

By lilly_en_route

It’s something that’s hard to even imagine, but the truth is, many women wake up every day scared—scared of the people who should be their safe place. For some, the only option is to find a shelter.

Shelters offer more than just a place to sleep. They give women the chance to catch their breath, regain some strength, and start over from the beginning. It’s not just about being safe—it’s about offering the emotional and practical help they need to escape the chaos, begin to heal, and eventually find their footing again.

But here’s the tough part: leaving is never easy. It’s not as simple as just walking out the door. There’s so much fear—about the kids, the finances, the unknown future. And probably the hardest part? The emotional toll that abuse takes, making women feel like they don’t even deserve a better life. It’s a vicious cycle that makes them think they’re trapped.

If you or someone you know is in this situation, don’t believe the lie that there’s no way out. Also, don't let any person talk down to you and convince you that it's your fault when you're feeling unsafe. It's not your fault. There are shelters, hotlines, and people who want to help. There’s always hope, even when it feels impossible.

For those of us who aren’t in these situations, there’s still so much we can do.

1. Donate to shelters. It doesn’t always have to be money—things like clothes, food, toiletries, and even your time can make a real difference.
2. Share resources. Sometimes all someone needs to hear is that help is out there waiting for them.
3. Listen. Sometimes, just offering a listening ear can make someone feel seen and heard when they feel invisible.

Everyone deserves to feel safe. Everyone deserves to live without fear. Let’s do what we can to help women escape abuse and remind them that they’re not alone. We all have a part to play in making sure no one has to face this alone.

Here are some details for those who need it:

Hilfetelefon (Germany): The helpline is available 24/7 at the number 08000 116 016 – free of charge and anonymously upon request. Through the website www.hilfetelefon.de, those affected can also receive advice online via email or chat. The online counseling is available internationally, but the free phone number is only accessible from Germany.

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (UK): This one is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 0808 2000 247 for women seeking support. In addition to the phone service, an online chat and British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter are available Monday to Friday for those who need alternative forms of communication.

Sources: 

https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/homelessness/womens_refuges

https://www.frauenhauskoordinierung.de/themenportal/hilfesystem/bundesweites-hilfetelefon