You may go to a shelter if you have experienced violence in your close relationship or your family. The violence does not need to be physical. Also, a threat of violence can be a reason to go to a shelter. Shelters provide a protected, safe space with precious advice, support and counselling.
Unfortunately, not all federal states offer free accommodation in a shelter. The staff will inform you whether you would need to pay anything yourself or whether you can apply for cost-sharing in accordance with the Social Security Code (SGB). However, do not hesitate to contact them. Your protection is the top priority.
For protection, the addresses of women's shelters and refuge apartments are not published. Information about women's refuges and shelters can be obtained from the Frauenhauskoordinierung e.V. (only some English content), the Germany-Wide Women's Refuge Search or the nationwide helpline (116 016).
You can also use search engines on the Internet, for example, to find a shelter and then contact them by phone or e-mail. The employee will then clarify all important questions with you. If admission is possible, a meeting point will be arranged with you from which you will be picked up.
Federal Coordination Office for the Protection of Male Victims of Violence offers a list of support services for men in situations where a person has experienced violence in an intimate relationship or within the family. Violence can be physical, psychological, sexual, or threatening behaviour – even the threat or fear of violence is a valid reason to seek support.
These listed services include men’s shelters and support centres in different cities and regions. They offer a safe and protected environment, along with crisis support, counselling, and psychosocial assistance. Support is also available for survivors of sexual violence and domestic violence.
Many services provide a map and search tool to help locate the nearest shelter or support centre. Contact is usually made by phone or email, and trained staff will help arrange safe access and next steps.
All contact is confidential, and support is available with a low threshold. Safety is always the top priority, and services can also refer individuals to other support organisations or authorities when needed.