From 1 May 2026, anyone who has experienced violence in Switzerland, as well as their relatives, who need immediate support can call the freephone number 142. The national helpline offers confidential advice and professional help – regardless of where in Switzerland you live.
The number is intended for anyone who has been the victim of a crime that has compromised their physical, psychological or sexual integrity – whether in private or in public.
The 142 helpline intervenes in crisis situations when those affected need immediate advice and urgent referral to existing support services is crucial.
⚠️ Please note: 142 is not an emergency number!
It is intended to provide advice and guidance in crisis situations. It does not replace emergency services. In the event of immediate danger, call the police on 117
Published on 5 May 2026
Were you physically or psychologically injured as a result of the major fire at a bar in Crans-Montana? Has one of your relatives been affected by this incident and you are unsure what to do? Victim Support can help you.
You can find all the information you need on the Victim Support Switzerland website: https://www.opferhilfe-schweiz.ch/de/grossbrand-crans-montana/
Published on 16 January 2025
We warmly invite you to come and see our new offices and join us for a drink and some light refreshments!
On Wednesday, 8 October 2025, from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm, we look forward to welcoming you to Opferhilfe, Gliserallee 10, 4th floor
We very much look forward to seeing you there!
Published on 26 September 2025
Céline Salzmann is taking over as Head of the Unterschlupf Association with immediate effect.
Céline Salzmann has been part of our team since October 2022 and has since dedicated herself to our work with great commitment, professional expertise and passion. We are delighted to have secured such an experienced and trusted colleague for this important role. In her new role as Head of the Organisation, Céline Salzmann will help shape the strategic and operational development of the organisation and will serve as the main point of contact.
If you have any questions, concerns or are interested in further collaboration, please do not hesitate to contact Céline Salzmann (c.salzmann@opferhilfe-wallis.ch).
Published on 9 July 2025
Following an experience of sexual violence, it is important to act quickly: at the emergency departments in Visp and Sion (as well as in the cantons of Vaud and Geneva) a specialist team is on hand to listen to you, support you, provide medical treatment and prepare a forensic medical report, regardless of whether you wish to report the incident to the police or not. You can receive professional support from an interdisciplinary team there 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
You can find further information via this link: https://www.agression-sexuelle-urgences.ch/
Published on 13 May 2025
Domestic violence is on the rise – and the number of unreported cases is much higher still.
Domestic violence is not a private matter. It happens every day, across all social classes, and it continues to increase. Women and children are particularly affected, often living in fear for years on end.
The police are recording more and more cases – but that is only the tip of the iceberg. Most victims do not report the abuse, out of fear, dependency or because they believe they will not be believed.
Every victim deserves protection. Every report that is not made emboldens the perpetrators. We finally need more support for victims, consistent prosecution and social change.
Domestic violence concerns us all.
You can find the full statistics here: https://www.polizeiwallis.ch/statistiken/
Published on 27 March 2025
