Victim Support Unit is here for you

The Linden Community Policing Forum Victim Support Unit is the beating heart of Linden police.

The unit, which works in conjunction with the forum and police officers, has the specific role of being present at a crime scene to assist the victims with trauma and counselling.

Bev Boswell, coordinator of the unit, added that the role of the trained volunteers is to act as a buffer between the victims and the police.

Volunteers explain to the victims what they can expect over the next few hours after a crime has happened. Additionally, the unit assists in calling family members and helping with necessary tasks.

Although the unit tries to alleviate as much stress for the victim as is possible at the time, Boswell explained that victims run on adrenaline and any counselling can only be done 48 to 72 hours after the traumatic incident. Victims can also approach the unit for extra counselling after this time.

A volunteer who works for the unit, Adri Mauff, explained that a volunteer will never go to a scene alone and it is important for that volunteer to not have any preconceived ideas about the crime.

Mauff added that it is important for volunteers to hover on the scene to pick up on information without overburdening the victims with questions, which were possibly already asked by police. She said it is about following protocol and seeing a need.

“Sometimes, it can be as simple as asking someone if they have eaten that day and organising food for them, that makes a difference,” said Mauff.

Details: Linden CPF Victim Support Unit 073 447 4451.