19 March 2003

Gauteng safety and liaison MEC Nomvula Mokonyane on Tuesday unveiled a counselling centre for abuse, rape and domestic violence victims in and around Ivory Park, north of Johannesburg.

The Victim Friendly Facility, housed at the local police station, is equipped with a bed, sofas, a television set and toys to make the victims' stay at the centre comfortable. The centre will also assist the victims with food, clothing and social support.

Speaking at the opening of the centre, Mokonyane said that rape and abuse victims needed a safe, friendly environment in which they could relate their ordeals in confidence, and that the centre would help restore victims’ dignity and pride.

"This facility will be used as a place where abused women and children and other victims are interviewed in a safer and friendly environment, away from curious stares."

She added that similar centres have been opened throughout the province in partnership with sponsor South African Breweries.

Source: BuaNews

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