Helpline to provide round-the-clock support to women

Initiative to address family matters, criminal cases, property concerns

LAHORE:

The Punjab Commission on the Status of Women (PCSW) on Monday signed an agreement to operate the Punjab Women's Helpline 1043 aimed at women's empowerment and protection of their rights.

This helpline, the first of its kind in Pakistan, offers round-the-clock legal advice and addresses the concerns and inquiries of women in Punjab.

The agreement signing ceremony was attended by Punjab Women Development Department Secretary Sumaira Samad.

The agreement was signed by PCSW Secretary Nabila Javaid and Ferotek Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Danish Iqbal.

During the ceremony, Secretary Sumaira Samad praised the pivotal role played by PCSW in promoting gender equality and eliminating discrimination against women in the province. She emphasised the importance of creating an environment where women can actively participate in all aspects of life.

The PCSW also presented a comprehensive overview of the helpline's achievements over the past year. Notably, the helpline handled a total of 23,046 calls during this period, offering crucial assistance and legal guidance to women facing a wide range of challenges. These calls encompassed various issues, including family matters, criminal cases, property-related concerns, harassment, violence, and general women's issues.

As many as 1,538 women sought help with family-related problems while 622 women received support in registering and seeking early relief in criminal cases. While 2,134 women sought legal guidance and referral services for property-related issues.

As many as 4,246 women reached out for assistance with harassment issues while 4,881 women contacted the helpline to report incidents of violence and torture, receiving legal guidance and referral services.

Beyond serving as a crisis intervention service, the Punjab Women's Helpline has evolved into a source of guidance and support for women.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 12^th, 2023.