Ekupholeni and Primrose SAPS work together to help victims
“Victims are sometimes scared to report crimes, especially if it's domestic or rape with the fear that they will be ill-treated, but if we are out there in the community seen working with the police it increases the level of trust for communities to report social crimes,” said Maphanga.
Ekupholeni Mental Health and Trauma Centre social workers are working closely with Primrose SAPS and supporting them in their school talk campaign, community outreaches and social victim centre.
“Learners are facing a number of challenges daily and some don’t even have a support structure that can assist them. “We are working with the SAPS, visiting school, and we want learners to know we are here for them. “They just need to ask for help. “Also, in the communities the women, children and even men who are in need of assistance but afraid to speak out or even ask for help in their community, we will offer assistance and link them to the right people,” said Ekupholeni supervisor for community services Chairmaine Maphanga.
“We have different programmes within our organisation from gender-based violence, social crime prevention with special focus on youth, substance abuse and youth empowerment where we can help our victims in a comprehensive, holistic process of healing, recovery and empowerment,” said Maphanga.
She said when social workers go out and conduct these outreaches with the police it also shows the community the police care and are willing to help.
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“Victims are sometimes scared to report crimes, especially if it’s domestic or rape with the fear that they will be ill-treated, but if we are out there in the community seen working with the police it increases the level of trust for communities to report social crimes,” said Maphanga.
She urged the community to approach them when they see their social workers out and about. “People are affected in different ways and others are not comfortable talking about their problems, but if you see us in your area don’t be afraid to approach us. Our aim is to heal and help our community. Our social workers will not judge you,” said Maphanga.
If you know of anyone in need of help or suffering from abuse, Ekupholeni has an office at the Primrose Police Station. They can be contacted on 011 909 2929.
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