Volunteers play big role in offering support to crime victims
YEOVILLE – The Johannesburg East Cluster gathered at the Yeoville Police Station for a ceremony to honour volunteers who help out with counselling of victims of crime.
The women and men in blue arrest perpetrators of crime, but what about the victims?
Luckily, there are caring people who volunteer at victim support centres, and the Johannesburg East Cluster acknowledged the services of these volunteers by honouring them at the Yeoville Police Station.
After starting off the event with a hymn and prayer, the station’s spokesperson, Sergeant Bongi Mdletshe handed over to emcee Captain Nthabiseng Magowa of the Hillbrow Police Station.
Magowa reminded attendees that it was still the commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence and the individuals being honoured were a huge part of this campaign.
Explaining the purpose of the event, Lieutenant Colonel Logan Govender of Rosebank Police Station said these volunteers were faced with the sensitive job of helping crime victims who had been through traumatic events. He added that without this help, victims may end up becoming perpetrators themselves or commit suicide.
“From our side as the South African Police Services, we recognise the volunteers for working since the initiative began until now,” he said.
“Let’s move forward, be stronger and hope to get more volunteers.”
A social worker of Lifeline, Busi Buthelezi said the government came up with this idea of victim empowerment and wanted social workers to be a support system in the police services so officers could continue with their daily work. “We offer training for all volunteers who have given all they can to serve the community, ” she said.
“I am always inspired by the professional conduct with which the officers handle the cases, putting in the sensitivity that is required.”
Yeoville Police Station commander, Colonel Phetole Mahasha extended his gratitude to the organisers of the event for recognising the members who play such an important role.
Details: South African Police Services 012 393 1000
Lifeline 011 422 4242 or email lifelinecounselling@gmail.com
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