PRESS RELEASE – As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, Overstrand Municipality is hosting a series of awareness programmes across the Overstrand aimed at encouraging stakeholders to take a stand against Gender-Based Violence (#GBV) and all forms of abuse by taking the first step towards action.
The campaign began on 26 November 2024 at the Municipal Auditorium in Hermanus with speeches from Sergeant Catheline Manual, the Overstrand Domestic Violence Co-ordinator at SAPS; Vernice Gertse, a Social Worker at Hermanus Provincial Hospital; and Antoinette Bishop and Lulona Thuthuma, from the Hermanus Night Shelter.
The discussions focused on the process of seeking help from these institutions, specifically for victims of rape and vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Attendees were informed about the steps involved in applying for and obtaining a protection order and its legal significance. Victims were urged to use SAPS intervention carefully and responsibly.
The speakers also shared valuable information about the services provided by their respective organisations.
A short video highlighted the support network available to victims of violence, showing that they are not alone on their path to recovery and justice. This network includes not only social workers, legal professionals, and police, but also nurses, community members and others dedicated to helping victims rebuild their lives.
Overstrand Executive Mayor, Dr Annelie Rabie called on the community to speak out against violence, stressing that everyone has a responsibility to report abuse and ensure justice is served. She stated, “If you, or someone you know, is experiencing violence or abuse, there is help and support available in the Overstrand”.
For assistance, victims are encouraged to visit their nearest police station.
