THE Brighton Beach Victim Friendly Centre (BBVFC) organised a trauma clinic at the Bluff National Golf Club on March 7, aiming to provide convenient support for local residents. The clinic was designed to address accessibility issues preventing people from getting much-needed services.

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Chantal Bransgrove-Bower, chairperson of the BBVFC, explained that the clinic was a response to the fragmented nature of support services.

“Often, individuals seeking help must go to different locations. The clinic sought to solve this by bringing services to one location, providing individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their situations, reminding them that support is available,” she said.

Services offered

The clinic included different service providers. A law clinic offered free legal advice to those who cannot afford it. Representatives from the Department of Justice were on hand to assist residents with issues like getting protection orders, child support and problems related to harassment. Social workers from Families South Africa were available and Safer Cities shared information on domestic abuse and bullying.

Child Welfare addressed concerns about children’s well-being, while Sam’s Voice offered advice on substance abuse and assistance for families dealing with these issues. Al-Anon was also present, providing support for families coping with addiction.

Mandy Laing taught basic self-defence skills. Police officers from the SAPS answered questions and helped with case-related issues. The Community Police Forum and RTL8 connected residents with local safety resources, and TSS, a security company, advised on home and personal safety.

Tabitha Community Service provided health screenings and Community Fathers distributed information about their programmes for strengthening father-child relationships and helping young people find educational opportunities.

The BBVFC’s Victim Support Unit offered emotional support and guidance, and the organisation’s new counsellor scheduled free counselling sessions for community participants.

Lower turnout, valuable experience

Even with all these services available, Bransgrove-Bower noted that not many people from the area came. She said despite the low turnout; the event provided the different groups an opportunity to network and think about ways to offer help in the future. “It is very sad that such an amazing opportunity was provided, but not taken advantage of,” she said.

Bransgrove-Bower expressed her gratitude to everyone who gave their time on a Saturday to support others. She added that their effort shows they care a lot.

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