Community pulls together to revamp trauma centres at local police stations
The trauma centres now offer safe and welcoming spaces for victims of domestic and gender-based violence to report incidents and access essential trauma counselling and emotional support.
Trauma centres at Garsfontein and Wierdabrug police stations have received a much-needed makeover, thanks to the residents of the Bronberg Retirement Village, the Rotary Club of Pretoria East and other caring residents.
The project included renovations of trauma counselling spaces, as well as the handover of knitted and crocheted blankets, scarves, and toys last Tuesday, October 17.
The aim of the project is to create a safe and welcoming space for victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence (GBV) to report incidents and access essential trauma counselling and emotional support.
These services are intended to protect the dignity and rights of victims, and for them to be empowered and not be subjected to secondary victimisation by the inefficiency of members of the criminal justice system.
Erika de Kock, the resident behind the revamp efforts, said she was drawn to the project after bringing someone to a police station to report a crime.
“The reception was cold and very public – they didn’t seem to have an available safe private space to take her to,” explained De Kock.
She said after they reported the crime at the desk, the victim said she never wanted to go back.
De Kock said afterwards she found out the stations do have rooms specifically for GBV and trauma crimes, but that these rooms were being used as storerooms.
“I decided to do something.
“These crimes happen and people need to know where to go and that help is available, instead of suffering in silence.”
She asked for support and donations from a local community group, kicking off the project.
The renovations of the trauma centre interiors have been completed, with ongoing work to improve the exteriors.
Doulien Knopjes, representing Bronberg Retirement Village and the Rotarians, said the trauma centres relied heavily on volunteer workers to help.
On October 17, members of the social committee and knitting ladies visited the trauma centre at Garsfontein police station to deliver the knitted items and blankets to both stations.
“Some people are physically or emotionally beaten. The trauma unit can listen, and if necessary, help people who need mental health or physical support,” said Knopjes, after she had discovered this during the visit.
“They do not give formal psychological advice but can listen and give support. Assistance is provided to approximately 40 people per month.
“These people can be taken to Steve Biko or Mamelodi hospitals, or referred to Weskoppies or Sterkfontein centres by mental health professionals.”
Bronberg Retirement Village’s social committee uses a budget of R2 000 a month, as well as donations from the community and the Rotary Club of Pretoria East to buy wool to make colourful creations for outreach initiatives.
The trauma centre’s important work is supported by organisations like Famsa and Lifeline, as well as churches and private individuals.
“We trust Bronberg’s lovingly knitted and crocheted blankets can give devastated people some warmth and security when wrapped up in them,” said Knopjes.
Anyone who wants to contribute to the next knitting project for young children ahead of Christmas can contact her at 079 499 8392.
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