Introducing TEAL – our upgraded national Elder Abuse Helpline

After 3 years in operation, we have implemented major upgrades to our Tafta national Elder Abuse Helpline. These include a fresh visual identity, a dedicated WhatsApp support line, and a new email channel – all aimed at broadening access to help, for older persons experiencing abuse across South Africa.

Since the Helpline’s launch on 23 November 2022, it has received 4293 calls and facilitated 1003 referrals to Social Workers, community service centres, SAPS units, and specialised elder care partners, highlighting the persistent demand for support services.

Commitment to safeguarding older persons

CEO, Femada Shamam, says the upgrades demonstrate Tafta’s commitment to safeguarding older persons.

“Elder abuse remains one of the most under-reported violations in South Africa,” she said. “Our enhanced reporting channels give older persons, caregivers, and communities multiple safe ways to reach us. Help must always be accessible, immediate, and confidential.”

TEAL (Tafta Elder Abuse Line)

Going forward, the service will be known as TEAL (Tafta Elder Abuse Line), and boasts a new logo symbolising hope, safety, and trust. A dedicated WhatsApp line (072 459 2613) allows elders and community members to report abuse, ask questions, and receive guidance in real time, while a new email address – help@tafta.org.za – caters to those who prefer written communication or need detailed support.

Call trends since TEAL’s inception have revealed the most common forms of abuse reported. According to Carmel Murugen, Divisional Manager of Research, Strategy, and Development, “Financial exploitation, emotional or psychological abuse, and neglect are consistently the most reported categories. These reports come from communities across South Africa, showing the widespread nature of elder abuse and the critical need for accessible support.

Exended reach

“We are pleased that TEAL has reached all nine provinces since its inception, with the majority of reports coming from KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Western Cape. With additions to the service, we are hopeful that our reach will expand to areas within Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Limpopo and the Free State – allowing us to support more accurate tracking and understanding of elder abuse across the country.”

Yoshina Kistensamy, Divisional Manager of Operations, emphasised the importance of the additional channels. “We know many older people fear reporting abuse because they rely on the very individuals who may be harming them. By expanding access through WhatsApp and email, we are lowering barriers, enabling easier reporting, and ensuring elders are not left to suffer in silence.”

Free national service

Tafta’s Elder Abuse Line remains a free, national service available to anyone seeking help, guidance, or immediate counselling related to the abuse or neglect of an older person. Managed by qualified Social Workers experienced in elder abuse intervention, the service provides confidential counselling, guidance on reporting abuse, crisis support, and direct referrals to appropriate services nationwide.

“Protecting older persons is a collective responsibility,” Shamam says. “Every call, every WhatsApp message, every report helps us safeguard someone’s dignity, safety, and wellbeing.”