Phone, WhatsApp, and Anonymous Chat Support

Rape crisis centers operate a telephone support system via hotlines, as well as 1202KolMila —an online support system that offers assistance through anonymous chat or WhatsApp. This page explains what support is, provides detailed information about the hotlines and written support, and answers common questions such as what happens during a support call, who can seek help, and more.

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What Is Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence?

Our support system offers an accessible, first-line response for survivors of sexual violence and those close to them, operating 24/7.

We’re here to listen, provide emotional support, and share information. Our assistance is primarily based on attentive listening, aiming to understand the need behind each request for help.

• We believe you. We won’t ask you for proof or details.
• We won’t judge you or how you acted before, during, or after the sexual assault.
• We can provide information about the effects of sexual violence.
• We can help you identify sources of strength and support to cope with the assault.
• We will not decide for you what the “right” thing is or how to proceed.
• We offer information about professional services and action options, and leave you in control of all your choices at every moment.

Our support is suitable for many different needs and situations—ranging from remote emotional support to guidance and practical solutions. For example:

• Emergencies, such as a sexual assault that occurred hours or days ago.
• Emotional support and a listening ear. A chance to share what you’re going through related to the sexual assault—processing some of the pain, confusion, challenges, and its impact on life.
• Explanations of possible courses of action for dealing with the assault and finding professional help (mental health support, legal procedures, rights, etc.).
• Referrals to specialized services within the center or the broader community.

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How Can You Get Help?

Telephone Hotlines

Rape crisis centers operate two nationwide hotlines:

• 1202 – Support provided by women volunteers
• 1203 – Support provided by men volunteers

Both lines provide Hebrew-language assistance 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays. Any survivor—woman or man—can call either line, depending on their preference for the volunteer’s gender.

Additionally, there are specialized hotlines:

• 04-6566813 – Support in Arabic
• 2511* – Support for women, girls, and boys in religious and ultra-Orthodox communities
• 02-5328000 – Support for men and adolescent boys in religious and ultra-Orthodox communities

Important to know: Calling 1202 will connect you to the rape crisis center nearest you. Calling one of the other hotlines or services may connect you to a different center. If needed, we will refer you to the closest center.

For support in English or other languages, you can call any hotline. Service will be provided as soon as possible, based on the availability of volunteers who speak your language. You will need to leave contact details or arrange a time in advance in order to receive support in other languages.

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1202KolMila – Written Support

1202KolMila is our written support system, offering assistance via anonymous chat and WhatsApp. It was created to provide a safe, anonymous space for immediate support, full listening, and information—because sometimes it’s easier to write than to speak.

1. Chat Support – Anonymous text-based support via the 1202KolMila website.
2. WhatsApp Support – Text-based assistance via WhatsApp, either through the 1202KolMila website or by messaging 052-8361202. Please note: WhatsApp support does not include voice or video calls.
3. Arabic Chat – Anonymous text-based support at ChatWavo.org

Written support is available Sunday–Thursday and on Saturday from 17:00 (5:00 PM) until late at night. Updated hours are listed on the 1202KolMila website.

For WhatsApp support, you can leave a message anytime, and it will be answered when the service opens.

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Who Can Use These Support Services?

Our services are primarily intended for anyone who has experienced sexual assault or harassment.

They’re also available to anyone supporting survivors—family, friends, or professionals (educators, therapists, workplace sexual harassment officers, and so on). We offer guidance on how to support survivors, help identify local resources, and provide emotional support in dealing with exposure to these incidents.

You can reach out for assistance regarding an assault that happened at any age and regardless of how much time has passed.

Center services are intended for survivors currently 14 or older. Younger children (or their parents/caregivers) can receive initial support through these channels and will then be referred for further help from appropriate organizations.

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Can I receive support in English?

Yes, you can, but it may require scheduling a separate support call. You can contact the hotlines and request support in English. Most volunteers do not feel fully comfortable providing English-language support (due to the high level of linguistic sensitivity required in such conversations), but they will take your information and ensure the center follows up with a staff member or volunteer who can offer support in English.

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What Happens During a Support Call?

In a support call, we offer:

• Active listening and emotional support
• Help identifying needs, strengths, and sources of support
• Information about sexual violence and its impact
• Information about community-based services and resources
• An overview of different ways to cope with the assault (emotional, legal, or rights-based)
• Referrals to continued services at our centers (in-person assistance, support groups, help with legal processes, etc.)
• Referrals to professionals who specialize in sexual violence
• Support and resources for those accompanying a survivor

What won’t happen during a support call?

• × We won’t judge you.
• × We won’t ask or demand details about the assault.
• × We won’t ask for your identity or personal details (unless needed to follow up on your request).
• × We won’t tell you what to do or how to act. You remain in control of your decisions.
• × We don’t provide therapy. Our support does not replace ongoing mental health treatment. If needed, we can help you find public or private mental health services.
• × We do not offer legal advice.

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Can I Seek Help Without Revealing My Identity?

All support sessions are confidential, and you do not have to identify yourself to receive help. We will not ask or require any personal details as a condition for support. In some cases, we might ask for contact information to follow up on your request, but the choice is always yours. We value the trust you place in us, and we do everything possible to be worthy of it.

Please note that on WhatsApp, your phone number and name (if listed in your profile) are visible. Even so, we will never use or share any information without your choice and consent.

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Do I Have to Pay for This Service?

Our services are offered free of charge and with no obligation. If you prefer, a single support call can be a standalone conversation; if you need more help, it can also be a gateway to further services, either in our center or elsewhere.

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Who Answers the Support Line?

Our support lines (phone, chat, WhatsApp) are staffed by volunteers who undergo a rigorous selection process and extensive professional training on sexual violence, its impact, helpful support, and available community resources. They receive ongoing supervision and guidance and work under the center’s professional staff. The volunteers come from all segments of Israeli society and across the country, representing a range of ages (from mid-20s, the minimum age for volunteering) and diverse life and work backgrounds.

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Are There Mandatory Reporting Requirements?

As mentioned, there’s no need to identify yourself when contacting a rape crisis center, and your conversation is confidential. However, if we receive specific information about a child under 18 who is currently experiencing sexual abuse by a close family member or a responsible adult (an educator, guardian, etc.), we have a legal obligation to report it to the authorities so the abuse can be stopped. In such a case, we will inform you at each step of the reporting process, and we will do our best to support the case as it proceeds.

Professionals such as educators and therapists are also invited to contact our support lines for information, consultation, and assistance in carrying out mandatory reporting in the most sensitive and professional way possible.