This upgraded room gives more adequate support to survivors of gender-based violence in Hillcrest when sensitive crimes need to be reported. A comforting space plays an important role in enabling victims to feel able to speak, to stay, and to continue with a case.
KwaZulu-Natal (17 December 2025) – The room where survivors give statements and recount their trauma should never add to an already difficult experience.
This week, the Jes Foord Foundation completed a full makeover of Hillcrest Police Station’s Sensitive Crimes Room.
With great care, it was converted from a cold, clinical room into a warm space that feels calm and more dignified, where survivors can feel supported during one of the hardest moments of their lives.
“Creating dignity-filled spaces is one way we stand with every victim of assault.” shares the Jes Foord Foundation, a local non-profit public benefit organisation.
Operational for over 15 years now, it provides free counselling and care initiatives for survivors of rape, molestation and sexual assault.
One of the foundation’s biggest initiatives to date, The Handbag Project, has delivered over 54,000 handbags filled with toiletries and care items that can assist rape victims after the initial reporting process.
It also aims to address the prevalence of rape in our society directly by creating positive influence through mentorship programs for young men and awareness talks, working together with the community to create change from the roots up.
South Africa continues to face alarmingly high levels of gender-based violence, and while awareness campaigns are important, practical changes on the ground matter just as much.
Creating safer, more humane reporting spaces doesn’t solve the problem but it does remove a barrier for victims seeking justice and support. In this case, it softened the space where these sensitive cases are received.
The impact is big. When someone reports a traumatic crime, the environment matters. Lighting, colour, comfort and privacy can all influence whether a survivor feels able to speak, to stay, and to continue with a case.
The makeover was made possible through a community effort.
“A small upgrade that will make a big difference for every victim of assault who walks through those doors. Together, we create spaces of healing, hope, and safety.” shares the foundation.
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