Older persons in Meyerton were equipped with information on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), their legal rights and domestic violence protection orders during a multi-stakeholder information session on August 25.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development hosted the session in Midvaal, bringing government departments and justice-sector organisations together to educate older residents on available protection and support mechanisms.
Representatives from Legal Aid South Africa, the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Social Development, Department of Health and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) participated in the programme.
Officials used the engagement to educate attendees about domestic violence protection orders and the legal mechanisms available to people experiencing abuse.
The session also aimed to improve access to justice by ensuring older persons understand where they can seek assistance when confronted with gender-based violence or domestic abuse.
Bringing several stakeholders together provided residents with access to information from organisations responsible for policing, prosecution, legal assistance, healthcare and social support.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has continued to emphasise access to justice and ensuring vulnerable members of communities are not left behind.
The Meyerton engagement formed part of efforts to strengthen awareness of GBVF and empower community members with information about their rights and the services available to protect them.
