Support Systems for Women in Distress

Help exists — but too few women know it, or how to reach it. PENN works to close that gap.

What This Data Means

Women Helpline (181) is free, 24x7, and connects callers to police, legal aid, medical help and counselling.
1.95 crore calls handled and 81.64 lakh women assisted in 2022 alone.
That scale shows real demand — but also that many women still don't know the service exists.

Awareness sessions tell people exactly what support already exists and how to reach it.
Legal aid volunteers help survivors understand their options and next steps.
Counselling volunteers offer direct support through PENN's own network.

1The Women Helpline (181) is free, confidential, and available around the clock — you don't need an emergency to call; it also handles guidance and information requests.
2If you're supporting a friend or family member in distress, help them save the number and, if they're comfortable, offer to be with them when they make the call.
3You can also approach the National Commission for Women (NCW) helpline for cases involving harassment, discrimination or legal guidance.
4Document incidents where safe to do so (dates, messages, witnesses) — it strengthens both helpline guidance and any later legal process.