Co-design workshops: CGH Safety Programme

The workshops programme focused on identification of safety issues, problem solving and a safety plan

Safety issues: The workshop addressed issues that have become a threat to safety in the occupation, undermined the role of leadership and violated the RTC Cissie Gool House Rules. The nature of these issues is related to misconduct of individuals or groups and has led to gender – based violence, gambling, drugs and alcohol abuse which also involves youth, noise and disturbance and violation of visitation and sleepover rules.

There is also concern about the failure of security guards to consistently enforce the rules of lockdown. As a result, the safety of the fellow occupiers has been compromised, and a negative image of CGH has developed in the neighborhood.

Problem solving: Practical solutions were discussed which focused on internal and external teams working together to ensure House Rules are understood, followed and managed. This includes following the disciplinary process, keeping leadership informed of misdemeanors and effectual response from the occupation leadership in the case of a crisis.

The workshops decided on the following practical solutions:

• Participate in safety awareness and skills programmes
• Awareness workshops of the implications of gender –based violence
• Use and abuse of drugs and alcohol in CGH is illegal
• Develop relationships with external sources: SAPS social services, Rehab centres, recreation Centres, Civic structures, NGOs, Schools, Neighbours
• Identify and enforce rules that specifically apply to each Section of CGH
• Draw up a Safety Plan