The Buddy System of Support

Through TVEP ’s “Buddy System ”, the first person that a victim discloses to at a TVEP trauma centre, irrespective of the time of day or night, is a Victim Advocate (VA). That VA facilitates all services at the trauma centre (see Attached List of Service), including pre-& post test counseling, and then remains as the victim ’s buddy for the duration of the case – or longer if indicated. The VA visits the victim at home on the 3rd day after s/he reported, to assess the home circumstances and encourage PEP adherence; consequently TVEP ’s PEP adherence rate is more than double the national average. The Buddy System is undoubtedly effective, both in terms of holistically meeting the client ’s psycho-social needs, and by encouraging – through VA oversight - efficient case management by the SAPS. The relationship that develops between the victim and her/his buddy enables follow up without risk of further trauma, and the AtJ team are frequently consulted by Prosecutors and police officers alike. For example, if a client wants to withdraw a case, the prosecutor will usually phone the AtJ team to find out if s/he being intimidated at home.