At HERSANA, we understand that every survivor’s journey is unique. While our services are tailored to meet the specific needs of Black women and femmes, we are committed to ensuring that everyone seeking help can access the support they need.
This page is here to guide you toward trusted organisations and resources that specialise in providing care for diverse groups and circumstances. Whether you’re a survivor yourself, concerned about someone else, or looking for guidance on specific issues, these organisations offer expert support, advice, and advocacy.
Explore the categories below to find resources that align with your needs. Remember, reaching out is a courageous first step, and there is help available.
Age UK is the country's largest charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. We believe in a world where everyone can love later life and we work every day to achieve this. 0800 678 1602 Age UK West Sussex and Brighton and Hove 01903 731 800
West Sussex and Brighton & HoveAfrica Advocacy Foundation provides cultural, language and faith-appropriate support. They aim to improve the safety, health and well-being of African women and girls who are at risk or experiencing domestic and sexual abuse (DSA) in South London.
South LondonADA is a grassroots organisation that delivers high quality domestic abuse education and awareness training. They have in-depth knowledge and lived experience and also support women who have experienced domestic abuse. Mobile: 0790 384 0033
NationwideAllsorts Youth Project listens to, supports and connects children and young people under 26 who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or exploring of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity (LGBT). 01273 721 211
BrightonAnima Youth supports marginalised girls and young women aged 16 to 24 who are at risk of exploitation and violence. This includes a EmpowerHER Safe Space, a supportive environment for young mums aged 16 to 24 at risk of VAWG. The same space also runs 'beingHER' for girls aged 11 to 18.
LondonWork with children and young people, and their families, up to the age of 18 years old who are at risk of or abused through sexual exploitation. Their direct work sessions are flexible and focused on the individual’s needs. They aim to help young people to explore their situation in a way that is most comfortable for them. Professionals, parents/carers and young people can find out more on how to refer into the service, by following the link to the website. B You Service also provide training packages for professionals in raising awareness in the area of Child Sexual Exploitation and how best to support children and young people
NationwideBHIMS mediators help parties involved in a dispute understand each other and recognise that they can find their own resolutions to conflicts. Mediation can help with disputes between neighbours, local community groups, families, schools, social care, supported living environments and businesses. BHIMS offers a safe and confidential environment for all involved to think things through and talk to each other about the issues. Their mediators are trained to work through the issues so that a resolution can be agreed. 01273 700812. 10:00 - 16:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
BrightonBCWA provides support for individuals, safe accommodation, support groups, counselling and community outreach. This includes the Identification and Referral to Improve Safety (IRIS) programme for GPs, the Japanese project to support Japanese women, and NRPF advice.
Bromley and CroydonProvide Individual Counselling for children and young people and Free Adult Counselling. Mental Health Services: Individual Emotional Wellbeing Sessions & Equine Emotional Wellbeing Sessions Please note, there are fees applicable for some of our services, details can be found on our website. 01424 775187
HastingsCapa First Response supports families and professionals impacted by child or adolescent on parent abuse.
BrightonThe Cassandra Centre is dedicated to educating, raising awareness and supporting young people and families at risk of or involved in abusive relationships. Their mission is to create a safe, nurturing environment where clients can heal and rebuild their lives. Telephone: 0785 252 5468
LondonWe work with people who want to change their lives for the better and achieve positive and life-affirming goals. We believe that everyone has the right to lead the best life they can. Our accessible services empower people to improve their health and wellbeing and take control of the direction of their lives. Our areas of expertise include: Substance misuse, Children and young people’s services, Family services, Accommodation &; homelessness, Clinical services, Criminal justice, Domestic abuse specialist provision (East Sussex) 0300 323 9985
East SussexCVA promotes, supports and develops, effective voluntary action to benefit the community in Croydon and its surrounding areas. They aim to build stronger communities by supporting citizens and championing organisations that nurture and celebrate local strengths.
CroydonThe Domestic Abuse (DA) Alliance provides civil legal assistance and protection for victims of domestic abuse. 0800 101 7110. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
NationwideEvery 3 Seconds run a 12 week domestic abuse programme. The next in-person programme starts on 6 January 2025 in Croydon.
CroydonThe Family Justice Service is run by a skilled experienced team that works to provide you and your family access to support services. They aim to listen and respond to your needs in a safe way. Telephone: 020 8688 0100
CroydonMoney Advice Plus in partnership with Surviving Economic Abuse operate the Financial Support Line for victims of Domestic Abuse. This service offers one off/ short term advice for victim-survivors for support with debts and benefits. 08081968845 between 9am–5pm Monday to Thursday. 0808 196 8845. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
HoveFORWARD provides safe and culturally sensitive support for migrant and African women who have recent or historical experience of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). They also help with other harmful practices such as breast ironing, so called 'honour' based abuse, forced or child marriage and abuse based on faith or belief.
LondonHestia provides domestic abuse support services in London and the Southeast, including domestic abuse refuges and community-based support.
NationwideHome-Start East Sussex is a local independent charity that believes every child and adult should live in a safe and nurturing family where every member enjoys a positive life. They currently run four services: 'Lotus Domestic Abuse Recovery Programme' for women who have experienced domestic abuse, 'Who’s in Charge?' groups for parents experiencing violence and abuse from their children, 'Being Mum' groups for first time mothers, 'Volunteer Family Support Service' for parents with pre-school children and pregnant women
East SussexHourglass is a UK wide charity focusing exclusively on the issue of elder abuse. They run a free and confidential Helpline for victims and those at risk, providing both emotional and practical support. It is also available for concerned relatives, friends and professionals. 080 8808 8141. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
SudburyA West Sussex based charity supporting survivors of rape and sexual abuse of all ages and genders, and their close supporters. Providing trauma-informed therapy face-to-face, online or over the phone, and play therapy for those under 10 years old. Plus, additional wrap-around support including trauma-informed yoga and psychoeducation support groups. To make a counselling referral: 01243 786349 The Lifecentre office is open Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5pm
NationwideLioness Circle is a 'by and for' specialist support network for women and girls who've experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence. It's for women living in and around Croydon, particularly those born of African and Caribbean heritage.
NationwideSpecialist therapeutic support for people over 18 years old who self-identify as male and who have had unwanted sexual experiences, including: Child sexual abuse, Sexual assault, Sexual harassment, Sexual body shaming and rape. Mankind offers 1-2-1 counselling, group courses, and peer therapy groups. 01273 911680
HoveThe Mental Health Foundation have a variety of online resources to help you, including a range of free, downloadable leaflets.
LondonMigrant Help assist victims of human trafficking and modern slavery in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The charity also provides advice and guidance to asylum seekers, it runs a free asylum helpline accessible to all asylum seekers in the UK. They can assist with applications for asylum support, reporting maintenance issues with asylum accommodation, requests for assistance, and advice on any asylum-related queries. 0808 8010 503
The Music Relief Foundation, offer a program designed for young girls aged 11 and older, facilitated by female youth workers. This initiative creates a safe environment where the girls can openly discuss the issues they wish to address.
CroydonMy Sisters' House work with women to improve their welfare and wellbeing, reduce their risk of domestic abuse and support their recovery, and help them reach their goals for employment, education or training. With hubs in Bognor Regis and Chichester, they support self-identifying women across the Arun & Chichester Districts. 01243 697800
Bognor RegisNational Helpline providing emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse. Abuse isn’t always physical- it can be psychological, emotional, financial and sexual too. Speak out, don't suffer in silence. 0800 999 5428. 10:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Friday. 10:00 - 20:00 Wednesday, Thursday
NationwideThe National Stalking Helpline is run by Suzy Lamplugh Trust. They can help you by giving you information and guidance on topics including: The law in relation to stalking and harassment in the United Kingdom, Reporting stalking or harassment, Effective gathering of evidence, Ensuring your personal safety and that of your friends and family, Practical steps to reduce the risk. 0808 802 0300. 09:30 - 16:00 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. 13:00 - 16:00 Wednesday.
NationwideOpoka is a specialist service working to stop domestic violence against women and children in the Polish community, aiming to create a world where women feel safe, secure, and can engage and participate in society. General Enquiries: 0117 427 0012, Helpline: 0300 365 1700. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
BristolPaws Protect is a cat fostering service for people fleeing domestic abuse. 0345 260 1280. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
NationwideThe RASASC centre in Croydon, provides specialist support to female survivors of sexual violence. Telephone: 0808 802 9999
CroydonRefuge, the national domestic violence charity, provides safe refuge accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic violence across East Sussex. National 24hr Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
LondonRelate’s team of experienced counsellors supports children, young people, individuals, couples and families to improve their mental health, and to make personal changes which enable them to engage in committed and loving relationships to benefit themselves, their family and society. 01293 657055. 07423147915
North & South West SussexRESPECT run behaviour-change courses in small groups for perpetrators of domestic violence.
NationwideThe Revenge Porn Helpline supports adults (those over the age of 18) who are victims of image based abuse and who have had their intimate images and videos shared without their consent, or when someone is threatening to do this. Non-judgemental and confidential advice: The helpline practitioners will listen to what has happened and help as best they can. Reporting and removal of content: They can help with reporting and removing content online. Social media advice: Advice on the social media platform’s community guidelines and polices and how to report and remove content to which they should respond promptly. Reporting to the police: Advice on how and what evidence you need to gather. Legal advice: They have an effective and positive working relationship with the QMUL Legal Advice Centre who offer free, client-centred legal consultations. 0345 600 0459 10:00 - 16:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
NationwideRISE is a charity. RISE stands for Refuge, Information, Support and Education. We help and support people in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex affected by violence and abuse. Services include: Domestic abuse helpline, LGBT* Specialist service, Support with criminal or civil proceedings, Counselling, Support Groups, Drop In, Individual support and advice, Children and Young People's Support, Training and education. 01273 622 822. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
BrightonIt doesn’t matter who you are, how you feel, or what has happened. If you feel that things are getting to you, get in touch. We know a lot about what can help you through tough times. We can help you explore your options, understand your problems better, or just be there to listen.
SurreyThe domestic abuse service (previously known as DeafHope) is a unique, deaf-led service for deaf people who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. The service is the first and only one of its kind in the UK. They currently work in London and the South East and remote support across England.
London and the South EastSky Alexandra House works to raise awareness about sexual violence and its profound impact, both locally and internationally. This work is done through advocacy, research and workshops.
NationwideSoul Purpose 360 is a national black women’s empowerment social enterprise with a growing network of local groups. They host the Black Women’s Networking and Empowerment Circle; a free-to-access membership that offers a wide range of support from black women.
NationwideWe believe that no one should be alone when they have experienced sexual violence, abuse or harassment. We are here for you, whether your experiences were a week ago or fifty years ago. We will support you, listen to you and believe you. Office: 01273 203380
East SussexStreetlightUK provides specialist support for women involved in prostitution, sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. Every woman matters. 07886115953. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
CrawleyThe Sussex Mental Healthline is a telephone service offering support and information to anyone experiencing mental health problems including stress, anxiety and depression. The service is also available to carers and healthcare professionals.
West SussexSuzy Lamplugh Trust’s vision is a society in which people are safer – and feel safer – from violence and aggression; we want people to be able to live life to the full. We work towards this vision through campaigning, education and support.
LondonSwitchboard is a charity for LGBTQ people looking for community, support or information. They connect people and support them directly through specially developed Switchboard services or link them to other specialist organisations. Trans Survivors is available Sunday 3-5pm on 01273 359042. 01273 359042. 19:00 - 21:30 Wednesday, Thursday
BrightonTime to Talk is a friendly and approachable service offering talking therapies to people who are struggling with; Stress, Worry and General Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks and Agoraphobia, Phobias, Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Health Anxiety, Post Natal Depression, Low Self Esteem or Low Confidence, Relationship difficulties or Bereavement and Reactions to Loss. Please see the website for your local contact number.
West SussexThe Brighton Refuge is a safe space providing accommodation and support for women and their children who are fleeing domestic abuse. Referrals to The Brighton Refuge are accepted from any source, though most typically this is via professionals or associate agencies, such as Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA's), Domestic Abuse (DA) Support Services, Social Services, and local Housing Teams. 01293 780419. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
NationwideA charity start up aiming to help fight domestic violence by providing pro bono legal advice, educating people about what constitutes domestic abuse. The Daisy Chain Project legal team consists of qualified and regulated barristers and solicitors who offer free legal support to men and women experiencing, or fleeing, domestic abuse.
WorthingTheir offer includes 1:1 listening support, safety planning, sexual health information and advice, signposting to other specialist services as well as free well-being packs, food/toiletry parcels and supermarket vouchers. They provide extensive exit support including help with: finding affordable housing, benefits applications, immigration issues, debt relief, job applications, work experience and access to education. They offer free training to front line professionals/service providers who support women who sell or exchange sex. 07902 726432. 09:00 - 16:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
WorthingIf you think you are a victim of modern slavery/human trafficking, you can contact The Modern Slavery Helpline. They can help you to understand what is available including information, advice and ways to access government funded support. You do not have to give your name or address unless you wish for your details to be passed to the police or another agency to access the government funded support. 08000 121 700
NationwideThe Saturn Centre SARC provides a 24/7 response service via Police to victims of rape and sexual assault who are aged 14 and over. You can also access the service without Police involvement, this is a confidential service and runs 9am-5pm. 01293 600 469, Helpline 0800 033 7797. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
CrawleyVeritas Justice is a community organisation providing support, advocacy and advice for individuals affected by stalking and the professionals supporting them. The aims of their service are to offer practical help, current safety advice and support to victims of stalking, combining professional expertise with personal experience to create a quality, high impact service with the needs and voices of victims at its heart. Monday to Friday: 10am till 5pm 01273 234 773
NationwideVictim Support is here to help anyone affected by crime, not only victims, but their friends, family and any other people involved. Because they're an independent charity, you can talk to them whether or not you reported the crime to the police. They can help you find the strength to deal with what you've been through. 0808 168 9274. 0808 168 9111 (out of hours) 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
NationwideWalk with Me equips parents and carers with tools to manage situations such as: child on parent abuse and disputes, school exclusions, neurodiverse and additional needs, child criminal exploitation
Women and Girls Network help with issues concerning Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). They offer counselling and support for women who have experienced, or are at risk of, gender based violence. This includes free specialist one to one casework support, to self identifying women, girls and non-binary people aged 14 and over.
West LondonWorth Specialist Domestic Abuse Service supports people who are at high risk of harm or homicide as a result of domestic abuse. They have teams of specially trained advisors across West Sussex who work to identify, assess and assist people at risk. 0330 222 8181. 09:00 - 17:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
West Sussex