Community given a place of hope
Duduza - The Department of Social Development (DSD) held an exhibition with local non-profit organisations at the Duduza Victim Centre on Thursday to raise awareness about the services offered at the facility.
The Victim Centre started operating in 2010 and offers help to victims of domestic abuse, rape and other social issues.
LifeLine counsellor Mpakiseng Motsoeng (36) says many residents in Duduza are not aware of the services rendered by the DSD and other organisations that help women and children who are victims of abuse.
“These services are put together for the many people who are experiencing challenges and problems they can’t handle without professional help, so the community should utilise these services,” says Motsoeng.
Community member Nomasonto Jele (47) explained that many women don’t seek help because they are afraid of what people will say when they find out they are being abused by their spouse.
“As women we should stop suffering in silence and go to the many centres available to us and seek help,” says Jele.
Spokesperson of the DSD, Thapelo Moiloa, says that the department wanted to create a safe heaven where women and children who are victims of abuse can seek help and professional counselling, and more importantly, to give a voice to the voiceless.
