A separate area of the Woodstock Police Station, the Victim Support Room, is staffed by volunteers from the community, who seek to empower victims and provide emotional support immediately after a crime and on a continuing basis as desired. The Room operates in co-operation with the police service and the Community Police Forum.
Volunteers at the Woodstock SAPS Victim Support Room provide
- a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen;
- help contacting family or friends;
- give guidance through symptoms of what one may feel as a result of the event;
- help explain the process that needs to be followed;
- help in communicating with the SAPS;
- give practical help to avoid further problems; and
- find referral to a professional counselling service if a traumatic response is profound.
The Victim Support Room plays a pivotal role in victim empowerment and support, but cannot function without volunteers. At the moment there is a serious shortage of people to help out and that’s why we would like to call on members of the community to volunteer their services and time, so that we are able to have a fully functioning Victim Support Room.
The ideal person should be committed and compassionate and willing to deal with serious issues relating to crime. Training with regards to Trauma counselling and First Aid will be provided by the Community Police Forum.
We need you to support your community!!
If you would like to become a volunteer, please contact Sergeant Malila - 082 778 7344 or Teun Baartman – 083 298 1009.
