In the heart of Johannesburg South, the Mondeor Victim Support Unit (VSU) quietly works to help survivors of crime and trauma.

The unit is made up of a dedicated team of volunteers who provide emotional and practical support to people in need.

Long-time members, Cass Ison, Vanessa Tuffek and Linda Menezes, explained: “We help survivors after incidents like home invasions, attempted hijackings, or even suicides. We debrief them, sit with their families, and sometimes care for their children while they process what happened.”

The team works closely with the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), ensuring that support reaches the right people at the right time. All of their work is voluntary; members are not paid for petrol, time or any services provided. The VSU is driven by passion, empathy, and love for the community.

How the VSU supports the community

The unit does more than just talk with survivors. They provide immediate help, almost like first aid for trauma.

“As soon as we reach a person, we can help them through whatever they are facing,” said the members.

The team also assists with practical issues, such as helping victims cancel stolen phones, contact banks, and access doctors or emergency services.

Cass, added: “We are the softer side of trauma. While official authorities handle procedures, we help survivors process their emotions in a safe, supportive space.”

The VSU operates across four sectors in Joburg South:

• Sector 1: Includes Bassonia, Glenanda, Glenvista, Mulbarton and Liefde and Vrede

• Sector 2: Alan Manor, Mondeor, Mondeor ext., Ridgeway, Kibler Heights, Suideroord, Meredale East and Winchester Hills

• Sector 3: Kibler Park, Alveda Park, Eagles Nest, Mayfield Park, Rispark, Patlyn, Eikenhof and Jacksons
• Sector 4: Meredale West, Comptonville and Naturena

Occasionally, the team also supports other sectors where previous victim support units have dissolved.

Early support makes a difference

Research and experience show that early support can dramatically improve recovery from trauma. The VSU provides immediate debriefing and coping tools for survivors.

“Sometimes survivors call us a week or two later,” explained Linda. “The important thing is that they know help is available, whenever they are ready to receive it.”

The volunteers emphasise that mental health is just as important as physical safety. They guide survivors through grief, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, helping them regain a sense of control over their lives.

Volunteering and getting involved

The Mondeor VSU are seeking additional volunteers to assist their communities. Volunteers undergo training in trauma support and debriefing to ensure they provide safe, professional care.

The members further shared: “The more volunteers we have, the more we can keep this unit alive. Other sectors’ VSU teams have dissolved over time, and we want to prevent that from happening here.”

Volunteers have the chance to train, join shifts, and help survivors navigate both emotional and practical challenges after traumatic events.

A message of hope

The Mondeor Victim Support Unit wants the community to know that help is always available. Survivors are not alone, and support goes beyond debriefing- it includes practical advice, safety measures and emotional care.

“Knowing your neighbours and having a team to support you makes a huge difference,” they added. “We are here to help, to listen and to provide tools so survivors can heal.”

Through their dedication, the Mondeor VSU continues to be a lifeline for those facing some of life’s most difficult moments, reminding the community that compassion and care can make all the difference.

For more information or to get involved, contact VSU directly on 076 152 9705.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank SAPS, the CPF and the entire team at the VSU,” shared the members. “This is never an easy or glamorous task. It is carried out quietly, consistently and entirely out of a deep passion for this community. We are deeply grateful to every one of you for your commitment.”