As the world marked Social Justice Day on Friday, 20 February, SA Outreach used the occasion to exclusively launch its new SA Outreach Intervention Wing, while raising urgent concerns over the growing number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases and the lack of faith many victims have in the justice system.
SA Outreach Legal Wing Director Leisha Ramlall said the organisation continues to assist victims seeking protection and justice, but many are discouraged by the ‘systemic failures and delays’.
“Our mission is to assist all victims of GBV. For us, social justice is victims getting justice, finding peace, and a way to move forward,” said Ramlall.
She said one of the biggest challenges is the lack of confidence communities have in authorities handling GBV matters.
“A majority of the time, communities have no faith in the justice system because of the way matters are being handled,” she said.
Ramlall explained that in her experience, victims often face delays when seeking help and that critical protection measures are not always prioritised.
“Police not reaching the victim on time, protection and harassment orders are not being prioritised. Return of service not reaching court after service on time, preventing the victim from applying for a warrant of arrest,” she said.
She added that inequality and poverty continue to worsen social injustice, leaving vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly at greater risk.
“The elders are too old to go get assistance or manipulated by family or don’t even know what their rights are. With regards to the children, there isn’t enough done to educate them on their rights, therefore seeking assistance at times is difficult,” she said.
Ramlall said social injustice also creates long-term barriers for young people, limiting their opportunities and affecting their future.
SA Outreach has recorded a rise in GBV cases, with contributing factors including drugs, unemployment, social media and relationship conflict. The effects, she noted, extend beyond victims, with families and communities often traumatised but afraid to intervene or report abuse.
“Some do and some don’t feel safe speaking out. The fear of what’s going to happen after prevents them from speaking out,” she said.
In response, SA Outreach launched its new wing, a specialised unit aimed at strengthening intervention and victim protection efforts. The Intervention Wing represents a shield of support and action, soaring above injustice to provide victims with protection, hope and a stronger pathway to justice. The team is led by Desigan Reddy and will assist in multiple aspects of the organisation’s work.
“This team aids in assisting in every part of SA Outreach initiatives, be it escorting victims to and from the court, protection from the assailant, and patrolling,” said Reddy.
He said both the justice system and society must reflect on their role in protecting victims.
“My opinion on the justice system and society as a whole is that society needs to be questioned on the morals we carry. I also do not think that the justice system protects the victims as much as it protects the accused or assailant,” he said.
Ramlall said SA Outreach continues to provide legal services, counselling, and assistance with protection and harassment orders, while working to empower communities through education and awareness. She urged communities not to remain silent in the face of injustice.
“You see it, you say it. Report, do not stay quiet. Stand up and speak out. Use your voice to make a difference,” she said.
For more information or for assistance contact SA Outreach on 063 405 2322 or send an email to saoutreachservices@outlook.com.
