I am experiencing violence at home — where do I get help now?
You are not alone and there is a way out. 1712 — hulplijn geweld en misbruik / Écoute violences conjugales 0800 30 030 (1712) is the confidential helpline for Belgium — free, day and night, for you or for someone you are worried about; they arrange shelter, legal help and a safety plan, and nothing happens without your consent. In immediate danger, Politie — Police-on-web (police.be) — the police can remove the violent person from the home and issue a barring order the same day in most EU countries. Slachtofferhulp (CAW) / Commissie voor financiële hulp aan slachtoffers (0800 13 500) supports you afterwards, free, with the report, the court and the practical side.
🗣️ What to say
"I am [being hurt / threatened] by my [partner / family member] at [address]. [I am in danger now / I am safe for the moment.] I would like to talk about my options — shelter, a protection order, and what happens if I report it."
🪜 Step by step
- Safe firstIf you can, go to a neighbour, a friend, a shop. Take your phone and ID if it is safe to.
- Call 1712 — hulplijn geweld en misbruik / Écoute violences conjugales 0800 30 030Anytime. They listen, they do not push, and they know every option in your area.
- Danger now: Politie — Police-on-webPolice can bar the violent person from the home for days or weeks without you having to leave.
- Evidence, when safePhotos of injuries, a doctor's note, dated messages, witnesses. Useful later; never a condition for help.
- Afterwards: Slachtofferhulp (CAW) / Commissie voor financiële hulp aan slachtoffersFree support through the report, protection orders, housing and money. You decide the pace.
📇 All contacts
❓ Frequently asked
Will they take my children away?
The aim of every service is to keep you and the children safe together. Talking to the helpline is not a report to child protection.
I have no income of my own
Shelters are free; emergency financial help and housing priority exist for victims. The helpline arranges it.
My residence permit depends on my partner
Victims of domestic violence have a separate right to stay in most EU countries. Ask the helpline for a specialised legal adviser — leaving does not mean deportation.
📎 Sources
- 1712 — hulplijn geweld en misbruik / Écoute violences conjugales 0800 30 030 →
- Politie — Police-on-web →
- Slachtofferhulp (CAW) / Commissie voor financiële hulp aan slachtoffers →
- Zorgcentrum na Seksueel Geweld (ZSG) →
- Bureau voor Juridische Bijstand (pro Deo) / Justitiehuis →
🔎 Common searches
Recognise your own search? The answer above covers all of these.
- “domestic violence helpline Belgium”
- “help partner violence Belgium”
- “barring order abusive partner”
- “women shelter Belgium”
- “protection order domestic violence”
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