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 survivors, Mediclinic engages with a number of community organisations and foundations to offer the most appropriate clinical environment to accommodate survivors.
“All Mediclinic Emergency Centre teams across the Western Cape have received additional focused training to sensitively receive survivors of GBV in a caring and holistic way, offering clinical forensic examinations and counselling services. Our healthcare workers are equipped to offer a comprehensive support structure, providing safe clinical and emotional support to GBV survivors,” says Dr Robyn Holgate, General Manager: Emergency Centres and ER24 paramedic services for Mediclinic Southern Africa.
Should a close friend or family member require assistance, assistance is now at Mediclinic George, Mediclinic Stellenbosch, Mediclinic Paarl, Mediclinic Worcester, Mediclinic Louis Leipoldt, Mediclinic Panorama, Mediclinic Cape Gate, Mediclinic Durbanville, Mediclinic Milnerton, Mediclinic Hermanus and Mediclinic Klein-Karoo or call the 24/7 emergency number 084 124.
“Through this expansion, survivors will not be required to visit a police station before seeking assistance. By safely receiving the survivor at our hospitals, we can process evidence which is made available to the authorities, whether the individual chooses to lay a criminal charge immediately, or at a later date, allowing each survivor time to process their experience and receive the most appropriate support,” Dr Holgate explains further.
Chief Transformation Executive for Mediclinic Southern Africa, Gale Shabangu understands that 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 survivors’ social status. “It is our hope that those who experience such trauma feel comfortable seeking support. To reduce fear of stigma or secondary victimisation, we have developed a strong awareness campaign in the nursing community and emergency teams, as well as greater community awareness about GBV.” She further highlights the role of collaboration in this process, “I would also like to thank our partners such as Ring for Peace and the Cape Trust, for the additional expertise and guidance in addition to public sector stakeholders we are already working with, ensuring that care and support are within easy reach.”
Mediclinic encourages the community to unite against GBV, by promoting greater understanding, reducing the stigma and shame for survivors and creating a safer environment for the most vulnerable in our society.
For further information please contact:
Mediclinic Southern Africa
Corporate Communication Manager
Email: media@mediclinic.co.za
Tel: 021 809 6500