THE Victim Support Centre (VSC) at Montclair police station has received a fresh coat of paint and a revamp and is now ready to assist members of the community.
Legislation requires that police stations must have a victim support centre.
The aim of the centre is to be a ‘first touch’ for people who need counselling. Montclair Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairman Gavin Hegter and victim support centre co-ordinator, Brenda Neal have been trying to get the centre up and running for a year. “The centre is there to assist victims, be there to listen and help point people in the right direction for professional help,” said Hegter.
They have received general support, help, and advice from Wentworth SAP. “We would like to thank the VSC at Wentworth SAP for all their assistance,” said Neal.
The centre needs assistance with training for their lay counsellors. Training in first aid is also needed.
The VSC’s goal is to run full-time during office hours to help man the facility. They want to be able to have volunteers on call 24/7. The centre also needs volunteers who are at home during office hours. Anyone who would like to volunteer can e-mail a short CV to gavin.hegter@gmail.com.
For more information and to assist with training contact Gavin Hegter on 072-821-1917 or Brenda Neal on 082-449-8172. Contact the Victim Support Centre on 031-469-8220.
