New to RISE?
Understanding Our Intake Process
If you are reaching out for support, we want you to feel informed and safe from the beginning.
RISE is a support organisation. We are not a crisis centre, not SAPS, and we do not provide emergency intervention. If you are in immediate danger, please contact SAPS or your local law enforcement directly.
Step 1:
Complete the Intake Form
All new survivors must complete our mandatory intake form before support can begin.
This form:
Confirms your consent to be assisted
Allows us to understand what type of support you need
Ensures your information can be shared internally within the RISE team for assistance purposes
Helps us place you in the correct legal, counselling, or support space
Intake is required for all new matters.
Step 2:
WhatsApp Contact
This line is managed by the Founder and serves as the primary RISE support and intake channel.
Due to the volume of requests and the nature of this work, the Founder is not always able to respond personally to every message. Michaela, our trauma-informed Head of Intake, assists with intake communication and will guide you gently through the next steps.
You will be contacted via WhatsApp after submitting your form.
Step 3:
Internal Review
Once your intake form is received:
Michaela reviews your information
Your needs are identified (legal, counselling, support group, or guidance)
Your details are shared internally only with relevant RISE volunteers assisting your matter
All RISE volunteers are bound by confidentiality. We take privacy seriously and operate in line with POPIA principles.
Step 4:
Personal Follow-Up and Placement
Once your intake form has been correctly completed and received, Michaela will reach out to you directly via WhatsApp to discuss your form, your situation, and the type of support you require.
During this conversation, your needs will be clarified and the appropriate next steps explained.
Based on your circumstances, you may:
Be added to the relevant RISE support group
Be assigned to the appropriate legal volunteer for guidance
Be scheduled with a counsellor
Be referred to a counselling intern where appropriate
Be referred to resources, external parties if we are not able to assist - only with your consent.
Placement is handled carefully to ensure you receive the most suitable and appropriate support.
What We Offer
Depending on your needs, RISE may provide:
Legal guidance (Protection Orders, Maintenance, Parenting Plans, Divorce guidance, GBV-related legal processes)
Court process guidance (unrepresented assistance only)
Scheduled counselling sessions with counsellors or interns
Access to survivor support groups
Trauma-informed emotional support
Educational resources and guidance
Please note: If you already have legal representation, we cannot provide legal guidance.
What RISE Is Not
We are not an emergency service
We are not a 24/7 crisis hotline
We do not represent clients in court
We do not replace SAPS, shelters, or medical services
Timeframes
Intake can take 2–3 working days, depending on volume.
We do not use automated replies. Every response comes from a real person. We ask for patience as we support a high number of survivors across South Africa.
Consent and Community
By completing our intake form, you are providing consent:
To be contacted for support
For your information to be shared internally within the RISE team
To be added to appropriate RISE support groups where suitable
You may withdraw consent at any time in writing.
Important
If your life is in danger, go directly to SAPS or your local law enforcement agency.
If your matter is urgent but not life-threatening, please use the contact link provided on this website or email us here.
We understand that reaching out takes courage. You will be treated with dignity, care, and respect.