Pic. Dr Nelson Mandela with Nomfundo Walaza, former Executive Director of the Trauma Centre during the Children and Violence support week, November 2003.

In existence for 11 years, the Trauma Centre actively assists in the healing and transformation process that South Africa is grappling with. It played and continues to play an invaluable role in post-apartheid South Africa. Of note the work that the Trauma Centre did during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process, plus the services it currently delivers to the marginalised and disadvantaged individuals and communities.

The Trauma Centre's professional staff provides healing through preventative and curative methods to those who have been traumatised by violence in our society. The staff also provides training to frontline workers from various sectors, and advocates on behalf of those whose human rights have been violated.

An understanding of the interrelationship between violence and trauma forms part of the professional ethos of service delivery, and expertise in the fields of traumatology and trauma counselling is evident within the Centre. Research underpins the value base of the organization.

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

In March 2005 The Trauma Centre signed a Service Level Agreement with the City of Cape Town. The aim of this agreement was for the Trauma Centre to play the role of LEAD AGENCY in ensuring an effective and coordinated crisis mental health service for victims and their next of kin, bystanders and frontline workers in the aftermath of a disaster in the Cape Town area. It was felt that this partnership would serve to prevent an escalation of the disaster, to alleviate, contain and minimise its effects (Disaster Management Act 2002:56).

"The Trauma Centre has been central to the healing process in South Africa" - Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Chairperson of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Patron of the Trauma Centre

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children

The Trauma Centre wish to bring to the attention of every person in South Africa the appalling fact of the ever increasing violence against women and children. How many moms (of our precious children) and our children are brutally assaulted daily?

Lets Unite against Abuse of Women and Children

Speek to as many people as you can about seeking help if there are abusers and perpetrators around your area

during this international campaign that takes place annually in South Africa from 25 November (International Day of No Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).