Community groups hope to add some sparkle to Roodepoort Police’s Victim Support Centre
Roodepoort Police Station's Victim Support Centre already provides an invaluable service for those in need of counselling and support.
Overcoming trauma is a gradual process that begins the moment one has fallen victim to a crime. The impact of the hurt and the nature of the healing depend solely on the quality of care one receives in the immediate aftermath.
Roodepoort Police Station’s Victim Support Centre already provides an invaluable service for those in need of counselling and support. Headed up by Chaplain Lukas Visagie, he and his team of dedicated social workers offer emotional sanctuary to the beaten, abused and violated. However, police stations can be an intimidating environment, which is why a group of concerned residents are pitching in to make the centre more welcoming.
The Roodepoort Community Policing Forum (CPF), Roodekrans Neighbourhood Watch (RNW) and Care4Charity have thrown their resources together to add some sparkle to the centre. Care4Charity, a thrift shop located in the same shopping centre as the RNW ops room, donated several book shelves, mattresses and a baby crib to the cause. The Victim Support Centre often takes care of small children temporarily while parents undergo procedural processes with police.
RNW’s Kirsten Long has taken it upon herself to champion the Victim Support Centre and develop the space into one of peace and healing. “Colour and feel are very important. To turn victims into survivors we need to create an environment that makes everyone feel safe and secure. A massive thanks to Johnny and Sherill from Care4Charity for being so generous and willing to help,” said Kirsten.
CPF Chairperson Petrus Lehaiwa and his Deputy Louis Walker were on hand to provide the muscle and transport to get the items from Ridgegate Corner back the station where it was graciously accepted by Station Commander, Brigadier Zoleka Khuboni. “Hallelujah! Thank you so much to the community. God is great!” said the elated Brigadier.
Roodepoort Police spokesperson, Captain Juanita Yorke was ever-present in facilitating the handover. “Thank you to everyone who is helping us serve the community. The Victim Support Centre is vital and it is important we look after it.” Should anyone be a victim of crime, they are encouraged to make use of the Victim Support Centre by enquiring with any of the officers on duty at the station.
