Victim of violence, harassment or sexual assault

What counts as violence

• Domestic or family violence: hitting, threats, repeated insults, control over money, phone or outings.
• Rape, sexual assault, unwanted touching, incest — recent or long ago.
• Harassment at work, at school, in the neighbourhood or online.
• Coercive control: humiliation, isolation, emotional blackmail.
• Violence against a child: abuse, neglect, exposure to violent conflict.

Warning signs

• You constantly adapt your behaviour to avoid a crisis.
• You are afraid to go home.
• Someone monitors your phone, accounts or movements.
• You feel guilty about what is being done to you.
• You have drifted away from friends, family or work.

What you can do now

• In immediate danger, call 112.
• Call an anonymous helpline: you do not have to file a complaint or give your name.
• Keep evidence safe: screenshots, photos, medical certificates, dates and facts (see the practical guide).
• Prepare an emergency bag and a leaving plan.
• A sexual violence care centre can see you without an appointment and without a complaint.

Useful numbers

• 112 — emergencies (police, fire, ambulance), 24/7
• 107 — Télé-Accueil, free anonymous listening line, 24/7 (French)
• 106 — Tele-Onthaal, free anonymous listening line, 24/7 (Dutch)
• 0800 30 030 — domestic violence helpline (French)
• 1712 — helpline for violence and abuse (Dutch)
• 0800 32 123 / 1813 — suicide prevention lines, 24/7

Frequently asked questions