142 is active: a call to break the silence on violence

Context

In brief

• Number 142 active in Switzerland for victims of violence
• Free, confidential and 24/7 service
• Specialized support in Ticino during office hours

Key facts

• What: Support number for victims of violence
• When: Active from today
• Where: Across Switzerland
• Who: Department of Health and Social Affairs (DSS)
• Cost: Free

The 142 is active: a call to break the silence on violence

From today, the number 142 is active across Switzerland, a line dedicated to supporting victims of violence and those close to them. The Department of Health and Social Affairs (DSS) presented the new service this morning at the Common Alarm Centre (CECAL) in Bellinzona, explaining its operation and access methods. The 142 offers a direct, simple, and immediate access point for those who have suffered physical, psychological, or sexual violence, both in public and private settings, ensuring timely support in moments of greatest need. Free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the service provides qualified personnel for listening, counseling, and guidance. The operators accompany people in their first steps and, if necessary, direct them to the competent services on the territory, also offering initial concrete support.

In Ticino, during office hours, calls are handled by the Service for Assistance to Victims of Crime (LAV Service), which guarantees specialized counseling. Outside office hours and on public holidays, the operators of the Federazione Cantonale Ticinese Servizi Autoambulanze (FCTSA) intervene, specifically trained to provide listening, support, and guidance.

The role of DSS and FCTSA

Councilor of State and Director of DSS Raffaele De Rosa emphasized that the introduction of the number 142 fits into the framework of national and cantonal measures for the implementation of the Istanbul Convention, ratified by Switzerland in 2018, the Swiss roadmap on domestic violence, and the Cantonal Action Plan. 'The goal is to ensure immediate and competent access to help for all victims,' he highlighted. As explained by the Delegate for Assistance to Victims of Crime, Cristiana Finzi, the service offers a structured response at multiple levels: from counseling to guidance towards competent services, up to the connection with emergency services in the most urgent cases.

It was also reiterated that the 142 is not an emergency number: in case of imminent danger, the police (117) or ambulance (144) should be contacted. The service integrates with existing offers, strengthening the support network without replacing it.

The president of FCTSA Luciano Anselmi illustrated the role of the Federation, emphasizing how the experience gained and the knowledge of the network allow for a service based on active listening, information gathering, identification of urgencies, and targeted guidance. He also recalled the preparatory work, based on close coordination among partners and specific training of personnel, carried out in collaboration with the LAV Service.

From May 1, 2026, the LAV Service of DSS will also provide a new informative leaflet and an updated website (www.ti.ch/lav), with clear information on the services offered, contact methods, thematic insights, and details on the number 142. With the activation of the 142, the State Council reaffirms its commitment to combating violence in all its forms through effective tools and measures, confirming the centrality of the issue in cantonal and federal strategies. Further information and a section of questions and answers are available on the site www.ti.ch/lav.

Operational details

Practical implications for cross-border workers

The activation of the number 142 represents a significant step in supporting victims of violence, including cross-border workers who work in Ticino. This service offers immediate and confidential support, which can be particularly useful for those in emergency situations or in need of guidance towards the competent services.

For cross-border workers, it is important to know that the service is free and available 24/7. This means that, regardless of the time or day, they can contact the number 142 to receive help. Additionally, the service is managed by qualified personnel who can provide specialized advice and guidance towards local services.

Comparison with the previous situation

Before the activation of the number 142, victims of violence in Ticino had to rely on an existing network of services that, however, did not offer immediate and centralized access. With the introduction of the new number, the DSS has created a single point of access that simplifies the process of requesting help and ensures timely support.

Concrete scenarios

Imagine being a cross-border worker in Ticino and finding yourself in a situation of domestic violence. Before the activation of the number 142, you would have had to search for information on available services and contact them individually. Now, you can simply call 142 and receive immediate support that will guide you to the services most suitable for your needs.

Concrete procedures

1. Contact 142: In case of need, call the number 142 to receive immediate support. 2. Receive advice: Qualified personnel will provide you with listening, advice, and guidance towards the competent services. 3. Obtain concrete support: If necessary, the service will direct you to emergency services or other local services. 4. Access updated information: Visit the site www.ti.ch/lav for further details and in-depth analysis.

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Key points

What to do now

If you find yourself in a situation of violence or know someone who is a victim, do not hesitate to contact the number 142. This service was created to provide immediate and confidential support, ensuring direct access to the competent services.

Next steps

1. Call 142: In case of emergency, call the number 142 immediately to receive support. 2. Get information: Visit the website www.ti.ch/lav for more details on the services offered and the ways to contact them. 3. Talk to an expert: If you need specialized advice, contact the LAV Service during office hours. 4. Use the calculator: To get an idea of your options and the services available, use the calculator on our website.

Conclusion

The activation of the number 142 represents an important step in supporting victims of violence in Ticino. This service offers immediate and confidential access to qualified support, ensuring timely help in moments of greatest need. Do not hesitate to contact the number 142 if you or someone you know needs help.

Source: tio.ch