Safe space for survivors of sexual assault
The Resta Support Group gives women the power to fight back
POLOKWANE – The Resta Support Group gives adult female victims and survivors of sexual assault a safe space to seek support.
The group, which was established in July 2019, helps female victims of rape, incest, assault and molestation in their journey to heal and find rest for their souls.
The group used to meet on Saturdays but due to Covid-19, the support group has had to halt for the time being.
Resta Support Group is an initiative of ThyRest Ekuphumleni Restoration Home which assists victims and survivors of sexual abuse, rape, human trafficking and women involved in prostitution who want out. Founder of ThyRest, Nobesuthu ‘Nobza’ Javu said sexual abuse is not an easy topic to bring up and talk about.
“Many women go through secondary trauma simply because they cannot talk about the experience as in most cases, people do not believe them or they ask silly questions implying that the victim did something to attract the attention of the perpetrator,” she said. This is why it was important to have a support group that is private and strictly for victims and survivors to allow them the space to open up without fear of judgement, particularly because they have all been through similar ordeals and are able to relate to one another.
“Everyone is given the opportunity to talk about their experiences, ask questions and the ladies open up without fear of being misjudged or misunderstood. They open up and speak about their experience and in return get healing as they listen to others’ stories,” she said.
Jane Kolobe* (not her real name) explained that she was in turmoil when she joined Resta Support Group.She had been struggling to cope and was nervous about sharing her story out of fear of being judged. “I wanted a place where I can relate to others who would not judge.”Being part of the group showed me that I am not alone. I have learned I am not a victim but rather a survivor,” she said.
Javu wants to bring the group to Facebook to continue to assist women who need help. The group is not active yet but women can contact Javu at 073 174 9185 or e-mail resta@thyrest.org.za.
