SPAR / End GBV

Socio-economic development

Gender-based violence (GBV) awareness

Together, we can end gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) affects individuals, families and communities across South Africa.

GBV can happen anywhere. It can affect women, children, men, and people of all gender identities.

At SPAR, we believe no one should face abuse alone. Through our END GBV work, we support practical action: access to support services and community-led initiatives, we stand alongside survivors and work to create safer spaces for women, children and vulnerable people.

 We are honouring the lives of 53 people, mostly women and girls, who have lost their lives, read their stories below.

Read their stories

Gender-based violence is never acceptable

Please note: Some descriptions below mention forms of abuse. Read at your own pace, and skip this section if it does not feel safe right now.

Physical abuse

Any act that hurts, threatens, or controls someone through physical force, including hitting, pushing, choking, or intimidation.

Psychological abuse

Words or behaviour used to frighten, shame, isolate, control, or break down a person’s confidence.

Sexual abuse

Any sexual act, pressure, or contact without consent. This includes harassment, coercion, exploitation, and assault.

Financial & economic abuse

Controlling someone’s money, work, documents, transport, or access to basic needs to limit their independence.

Know your rights. You are not alone

At SPAR, we want to help educate you in the fight against GBV

If you have experienced GBV, you have the right to safety, medical care, emotional support, and justice. You also have the right to be treated with dignity and to make decisions at your own pace.

Learn your rights

24/7 support

If you or someone you know needs help, friends are available to listen and to provide 24/7 support.

Please call or WhatsApp the number relevant to you and together we can END gender-based violence in our communities.

South Africa:

0800 150 150

Namibia:

106

Swaziland:

+27 0800 150 150

Botswana:

0391 1270

Why orange mattersAt SPAR, we are committed to ending gender-based violence and supporting people affected by GBV.

Used by the United Nations in global GBV campaigns, orange has become a powerful symbol of action. By aligning with this movement, and through partnerships with LifeLine and care centres.

Latest news and stories

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SPAR Cares

Women’s Month - Add a little to make a BIG difference

This Women’s Month, make a difference by adding a little bit extra to your shopping at SPAR. Add R1 to your shopping bill to support the following charities, causes and non-governmental organisations:

12 months of appreciation

SPAR supports 16 Days of Activism by raising awareness, sharing education, and supporting partnerships that help survivors access care, dignity, and justice.

Make Change Happen this Women’s Month

Buy a pair of bracelets for just R5 at your favourite SPAR this Women’s Month and give the extra bracelet to a Woman you admire. #SPARWomensMonth

Our valued partners

Ending GBV takes trusted partnerships. SPAR works with organisations that provide survivor care, counselling, education, legal support, and community awareness.