Assessments
Evaluation
All children referred to PATCH will have a pre-forensic as well as a forensic evaluation to investigate the allegations of sexual abuse presented at the intake process. The aim of the evaluation is to gather evidence and facts. The evaluation is done in a way that is sensitive to the development of each child.
Pre-Forensic Evaluation
The pre-forensic evaluation of the child involves a holistic screening of all the areas of functioning and systems that the child is involved. The aim of the evaluation is to:
- Determine the child’s level of cognitive functioning.
- Act as a competency assessment of the child.
- Provide a solid basis of knowledge about the child and his world.
- Screen for other possible causes of the child’s behaviour
Forensic Investigations into allegations of sexual abuse
All children referred to PATCH will have a pre-forensic as well as a forensic evaluation to investigate the allegations of sexual abuse presented at the intake process. The aim of the evaluation is to gather evidence and facts. The evaluation is done in a way that is sensitive to the development of each child.
Forensic Investigations into allegations of sexual abuse
All children referred to PATCH will have a pre-forensic as well as a forensic evaluation to investigate the allegations of sexual abuse presented at the intake process. The aim of the evaluation is to gather evidence and facts. The evaluation is done in a way that is sensitive to the development of each child.
Therapeutic Services
A range of professional therapeutic services for child survivors are offered by qualified social workers and psychological counsellors based at our centres throughout the Helderberg basin.
Types of Therapies
Therapy is provided on an individual or group basis that is specific to the needs of the child survivor. The professional staff at PATCH make use of a wide range of therapies, including narrative therapy, play therapy, and cognitive-behavioural therapy, somatic experiencing, and Eye Movement Integration Therapy. They work according to the individual child’s needs.
Time to Heal
The therapeutic services provided ensures that the child’s sense of control over his/her life as well as their self esteem is restored. This professional intervention provides a safe place for the child survivor to deal with the trauma of having been raped or sexually abused. We understand that the time needed in the healing process is unique to each child. PATCH does not limit the number of therapeutic sessions, with some child survivors receiving our interventions for 12 months or longer.
Court Preparation
Appearing in a criminal court is a very frightening experience for an adult, even more so for a young child. But, without their vital evidence the perpetrators will not face prosecution.
Primary Objectives
Unprepared, counsel for defence may easily undermine and confuse the child or parent in such a way that he or she is not believed, and the abuser gets away with the crimes. The primary objective is to prepare the child to be a competent witness to testify in their own trail.
Types of Sessions
Court preparation sessions are offered in individual sessions with the child. We also facilitate for the child and parent to visit the court before the court case and get familiar with the court environment. Children are assigned a trained court intermediary to assist during questioning. PATCH provides court support to the child and their family on the day of their case.
24 Hour Crisis Service
Our 24/7 crisis service is a lifeline for those in distress, ensuring that no child has to face the trauma of abuse alone. By being available at all hours, PATCH reinforces its commitment to creating a network of safety, hope, and healing for the youngest and most vulnerable members of our community.
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. PATCH is here to help.
Get in Touch!
Are you interested in learning more about PATCH Helderberg and our work?
Please send us a message using the contact form here and we will be in touch.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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