Midrand VEC works to empower victims

While many have been enjoying time spent at home with family during the lockdown, being at home has been a nightmare for those who are victims of gender-based violence. The Midrand Victim Empowerment Centre (VEC) works to ensure that those who are affected by violence have access to the help they need. Midrand VEC interim chairperson, Jacqui Von Loggenburg said that at the beginning of the lockdown period, when South Africa was on levels 5 and 4, it was very quiet. She said that it might have been because victims had nowhere to go to because of the regulations and they might not have been able to report gender-based violence. She added that the ban on alcohol may have worked in their favour. She said, “As soon as we went to Level 3 of lockdown we saw a spike. I think now with everything that has been in the media concerning gender-based violence, people are coming forward. In the last two weeks, we saw many people coming forward.” Therefore, we are doing everything we can to support these ladies and gentlemen, in any way that we can.” Von Loggenburg added that they have councillors on a weekly duty roster, and counselling sessions are set up telephonically.”We were hoping to have face-to-face counselling sessions back next week but with the spike in of Covid-19 cases we can’t take the risk. If anybody needs our help, the correct protocol is to phone the Victim Empowerment line, we will then set up an appointment with you or alternatively do a Zoom or WhatsApp call, depending on what works for the victim. “From there, the team we will take the necessary steps to assist you to get out of the situation or improve it with the assistance of various partners. These include SAPS, Sector Crime Forum, Tears Foundation, Woman and Men Against Child Abuse, shelters and Johannesburg Child Welfare to name a few that we work hand in hand with.” Von Loggenburg believes increasing uncertainty due to the pandemic may exacerbate these problems. “It has escalated into more domestic violence, more alcohol being consumed and drugs to take away the pain or the problems families are currently facing. It is a vicious spiral. The anger and depression get taken out on children, wives, husbands, partners etc. “This is extremely sad, and we want to help both the victim and perpetrator heal, get them counselling and help them get back on their feet or into rehabilitation. If mediation is necessary we will facilitate that too. “We ask neighbours and friends to please keep an eye out for any abuse of any form you may see or hear, and don’t be complicit, report it.” Von Loggenburg concluded that if ever anyone needs assistance they can send a message to the Midrand Community Policing Forum Facebook page or call them on Midrand Victim Empowerment on 076 445 2451.