GREAT BRAK RIVER NEWS - Great Brak River Police Station's victim empowerment room has received a fresh new look to make victims feel as comfortable and safe as possible.
The revamped room was officially opened during a small ceremony at the station on Thursday afternoon, 15 October. Guests included police officers, representatives of the Great Brak River CPF, the DR Church Great Brak River, a local business that assisted with the makeover, and Dianne Oosthuizen.
Oosthuizen began her police career at Great Brak River Police Station in 1982, long before a victim empowerment room existed. She retired a few years ago and now lives in Herbertsdale.
The room is intended to serve as a safe haven for victims of crime, both young and old, providing them with a secure and comfortable space during their difficult, distressing time.
It is furnished with two comfortable chairs, a cupboard full of toys, soft plush toys to hold, blankets and other items to help victims feel more at ease. The room can also be locked at a victim's request.
The new victim empowerment room at Great Brak River Police Station. Photo: Chelsea Pieterse
Great Brak River CPF chairperson Jacky Carstens thanked the DR Church for helping to fund the room, as well as everyone who contributed to the makeover, including those who painted the room, sewed the curtains and reupholstered the chairs.
She said the room complies with the police's national guidelines for a victim-friendly room.
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