Makana Rape Survivors Support Group

Community-based rape survivors support group and safe house; SAPS-partnered; free; ongoing peer and counselling support for GBV/rape survivors; victim-friendly access model - **Immediate victim support** — when a survivor presents at SAPS Makhanda, a Support Group member is contacted to provide immediate care and personal support - **Initial counselling** — trauma-focused initial counselling at point of disclosure - **Ongoing care and support** — ongoing peer and professional support through the recovery process - **Personal care** — practical care including hygiene and dignity items - **Safe house** — emergency shelter for survivors who cannot safely return home - **Court support** — supporting survivors through the criminal justice process; the group works closely with the NPA Grahamstown (Makhanda) - **Sensitivity to consent** — survivors are NOT asked whether they want to open a case or give a statement until they are ready; the support group leads, not SAPS intake procedure **Important note on access to medical care:** In Makhanda, access to PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) and STI screening — critical for rape survivors — has historically required a police case number. Survivors are encouraged to seek this medical care as soon as possible. Settlers Hospital and Makhanda Day Hospital are the referral hospitals. The Support Group assists with navigating this process. **NPA context:** The Grahamstown (Makhanda) National Prosecuting Authority has stated that roughly 98% of GBV cases that go through the Grahamstown High Court are successfully prosecuted. Survivors are encouraged to report as early as possible to preserve evidence.