Security company helping the fight against domestic/gender-based violence

We’ve written a lot about the scourge of rape and gender-based violence (GBV) in our country. Sadly, we are seeing an increase in incidents during the national lockdown to combat COVID-19. One security company is fighting GBV. It has put in place a system to help its control centre evaluate the level of risk a client is facing and tailor the response accordingly. We’ve only heard of this one example; but it’s probable that there are others. We are keen to hear what your security company is doing. You can email us on simon@sdlaw.co.za

In this particular protocol, there are three levels of distress, with relevant actions for each level:

1. YELLOW

There is a history of incidents. Build-up is noticeable. Incidents are likely to recur. 

Client’s immediate requirement: Client would like more information on her options.

What the client should do: Send an email to [named support officer at the security company].

The security company will refer the case to a relevant expert with access to medical, social, psychological and forensic experts, helplines, and shelters (in severe cases).

2. PINK

Client feels threatened and wants to seek refuge.

Client’s immediate requirement: Client would like preventative assistance.

What the client should do: Call the [named security company] control centre on xxx xxx xxxx for immediate assistance. Or send a WhatsApp to xxx xxx xxxx.

3. PURPLE

Client is currently being attacked and needs urgent assistance.

Client’s immediate requirement: Client needs urgent support.

What the client should do: Activate the alarm system and use a false password, if possible, or send a WhatsApp to xxx xxx xxxx. SAPS will also be contacted and the necessary steps taken.

This won’t help everyone, but it may help someone 

We know that not all women who are at risk of violence in the home are clients of a security company. But many are. And this is a start. 

We urge other security companies and body corporates to adopt this method in recognising and responding to domestic violence. We also urge all entities who come into contact with women at risk to support women to come forward and report incidents of physical and emotional abuse to the police – when they are ready. Reports can be made any time after the incident; they do not have to be filed instantly, if a woman is not ready. Many women don’t report rape and assault because they fear they won’t be believed, or the process of reporting the attack will be more traumatic than the attack itself. Unfortunately sometimes the incredulity happens at official level.

The more security companies, neighbours and community groups stand up to gender-based violence, with tangible actions like those listed above, the more women will feel supported and will be encouraged to report these crimes. And the more these incidents are reported, the more the police will realise the true nature and extent of this blight on our society and take more decisive actions. Our conviction rate for rape and sexual assault is pitifully low. This needs to change. 

Spread the word

We encourage anyone reading this to speak to your security company and ask them to implement a similar protocol. We recommend that you share this in your community and on social media. It’s up to all of us to put a stop to violence against women.

We can help

If you have been affected by gender-based violence, either personally or because you are supporting a survivor, and you would like more information on how to secure a protection order or seek refuge, contact Simon on 086 099 5146 or email simon@sdlaw.co.za for a discussion in complete confidence. We are family lawyers and the safety of you and your children or other loved ones is our first priority.

Useful contacts:

• GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 / *120*7867# from any cell phone
• Women Abuse Helpline: 0800 150 150
• Childline: 0800 055 555
• SAPS Crime Stop: 0860 10111 / SMS Crime Line: 32211
• GBVF-related service complaints (SAPS): 0800 333 177/
• Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust: 24-hour helpline: 021 447 9762

Video:

https://www.instagram.com/tv/B__8So4pnwk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Simon Dippenaar

http://www.sdlaw.co.za

Cape Town attorney Simon Dippenaar has a BBusSc LLB degree and Professional Diploma in Legal Practice from the University of Cape Town, and is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. He is the founder and director of private legal practice, Simon Dippenaar & Associates, with offices in Cape Town and Gauteng representing South African and international clients.

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