Mediclinic understands that many of our communities are plagued by increasing levels of gender-based violence (GBV). In an effort to create a safe and reassuring environment to receive and support such victims, Mediclinic has joined forces with a number of community organisations and foundations to offer the most appropriate clinical environment to accommodate these individuals.
“We have seven Emergency Centres across the Western Cape staffed by health-care workers who are equipped to offer a comprehensive support structure, providing safe clinical and emotional support to GBV survivors,” explains Dr Melanie Stander, General Manager: Clinical Services for Mediclinic Southern Africa. “These include Mediclinic Stellenbosch, Mediclinic Paarl, Mediclinic Worcester, with the recent addition of Mediclinic Louis Leipoldt, Mediclinic Panorama, Mediclinic Cape Gate and Mediclinic Durbanville. Should you or a close friend or family member require assistance, please visit one of these hospitals or call ER24 on 084 124 for support.”
All health-care workers within these centres have received additional focused training to sensitively receive survivors of GBV in a caring and holistic way, offering clinical forensic examinations and counselling services.
“By safely receiving the victim we can process evidence that will be available to the authorities,” Stander pointed out, “whether the individual chooses to lay a criminal charge immediately or, at a later date, allows each victim time to process their experience and receive the most appropriate support.”
Survivors are by no means required to visit a police station before seeking assistance.
We understand further effects of GBV can include increased trauma-related health risks, undermining trust, inflicting physical disabilities, causing stigma and shame, and all this regardless of victims’ social status.
“It is our hope that those who experience such trauma feel comfortable approaching one of our centres for support,” said Shabangu.
“To reduce fear of stigma or secondary victimisation we have developed a strong awareness campaign in the nursing community and emergency teams, and expanded our efforts to promote greater community awareness about GBV.
“Partners such as Ring for Peace and the Cape Trust are vital in the work we are doing. They have provided additional expertise and guidance in addition to the stakeholders in the public sector we are already working with, ensuring that care and support is within easy reach. It is our intention to continue expanding the localities that offer this care as well as play a greater role in supporting survivors.
“Mediclinic calls for our community to unite against GBV, promoting greater understanding around this important issue, and ensuring the provision of care to those impacted.
“We want to reduce the stigma and shame for survivors and we invite the community to work together to create a safer environment for the most vulnerable in our society.”
