South Africans are in a battle against Gender Based Violence (GBV) and statistics show that during the COVID-19 national lockdown period, reported cases of GBV have spiked from less than 1500 to over 5000 per week.
A few celebrities have launched a response to the fight through a new program called Carling Black Label’s #NoExcuse “The Bravest Thing”.
It’s supported by TV presenter and medical doctor, Dr Musa Mthombeni; sports presenters – Thomas Mlambo and Andile Ncube; radio DJ, Moeti “Mo Flava” Tseki and former football player, Phumudzo Manenzhe.
The programme is aimed at driving awareness, provoking action and providing tools for creating a better world.
This campaign has two phases – the first phase being to raise awareness about the LifeLine number, as people should know there is help available to them. The second phase is to provide them with insight on the WhatsApp functionality and that help is only one Brave text away.
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#NoExcuse has a holistic approach to ending GBV through various programs aimed at men who are seeking mentorship and assistance in becoming better men and to provide the victims of abuse with help. The Helpline is for both men and women. The WhatsApp service is where people can send the word BRAVE to 0800 150 150 and get in touch with the right organisation to get the help they need.
“This is a very concerning development which we are faced with, particularly as we do not know how many cases remain unreported. As a brand that is committed to recognizing the champion within, we want to encourage people to be brave and give them a way to get help. This WhatsApp line gives victims of abuse who could be men or women a way to get counselling silently. It also puts men who are struggling to be their inner champion in touch with a mentor, someone to talk to, so that they can start on the journey to be champion men. All of this can now happen silently,” said Carling Black Label Brand Director, Arné Rust.
“Given the various circumstances people find themselves in during the lockdown, it is difficult for victims of abuse to call for help and also stops men who are ashamed of showing weakness from reaching out. So, the text-based service will enable them to silently send a text for help, without being detected,” concluded Rust.
