Vienna's Women's Helpline marks 30 years of lifesaving support for survivors

Vienna’s Women’s Helpline has reached a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of operation. The service has provided vital support to women and girls aged 14 and older affected by violence since its launch. The helpline began its work on New Year’s Eve 1995 with its first overnight shift. Over the decades, it has handled 192,000 counselling contacts, spending a total of 1,146,400 minutes on calls. The average call lasts eight minutes.

Available 24/7, the service offers immediate crisis intervention. It also provides psychosocial, legal, and social work assistance. Support extends beyond phone calls, with accompaniment to police stations, courts, or hospitals when needed.

The helpline has also contributed to broader change. It played a role in shaping anti-stalking legislation, strengthening protections for those at risk. The helpline remains a constant resource for those in need. Its long-standing presence ensures women and girls in Vienna can access help at any time. The service continues to expand its impact through direct support and advocacy.