Every Victim Deserves to Be Heard — Make 116 006 a Lifeline Across Europe

This petition is particularly timely. The revised Victims’ Rights Directive introduces a clear obligation for Member States to ensure the availability of the 116 006 helpline, accessible through the harmonised EU number and through other secure and accessible communication technologies, including online applications and websites. At VSE our goal is to actively support Member States in setting up or strengthening their helplines well in advance, and to facilitate the exchange of expertise and good practices across the European Union.

Every year, millions of people fall victim to crime varying from theft, assault, online abuse, to gender-based violence and human trafficking, among others. In those first hours and days, victims need more than forms or instructions. They need someone to listen, guide, and support them with care and respect.

That’s what the 116 006 Victims’ Helpline is for a free, confidential, EU-wide number providing emotional, practical, and legal support to anyone affected by crime.

But today, too many EU countries still do not offer this service. Victims can face silence when they reach out for help, simply because of where they live. This is unfair and unacceptable. 

We Call on Governments and EU Institutions to: 

• Make 116 006 available in every EU Member State
• Ensure sustainable and adequate funding for the 116 006 helplines to guarantee that are properly resourced, maintained, and operated to high-quality standards, reliability and long-term viability.
• Guarantee that every victim, everywhere in Europe, can access help; free, confidential, and compassionate

Why 116 006 Matters 
The helpline is more than a number; it is a lifeline. 
It gives victims a voice, comfort, and guidance when they need it most. It can help them recover, feel safe, and take the first steps towards justice. 

No one should be left alone after crime. Wherever a victim is in Europe, help must always be just one call away.

Sign the Pledge 
By signing, you are saying: 

• Every victim deserves support, not silence
• All victims deserve dignity, respect, and equality
• 116 006 must be available and accessible to all across Europe 

Together, we can make sure no victim is left behind. 116 006: a lifeline every EU citizen deserves. 
Sign. Share. Support.  
#116006forAll #NoVictimLeftBehind 

Read more about the campaign here: https://victim-support.eu/media-center/campaigns/116006-helpline-one-number-one-standard-equal-support-for-every-victim/