The witness waiting room and the testifying room for children in the Gqeberha High Court recently received a complete renovation to create a safe space for testifying children. Previously there were two bleak rooms with one chair against a wall. But six months ago, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in partnership with SPAR Eastern Cape, put the wheels in motion to revamp these rooms. Following the guidance of a psychologist, the interior designers focused on colours children find soothing. Therefore, light tones of coral and white cover the walls of the waiting room while a calm grey and yellow adorns the walls of the testifying room. Soft fleece blankets in pastel colours sit in a basket against the wall, while dolls and plush toys are placed strategically around the rooms and on top of the pink bookshelf in one corner. A massive TV provides a large selection of cartoons and movies to choose from. The provincial manager of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), Dr Eileen Carter, said this significant upgrade reflected a positive step towards safeguarding the interests of children. The testifying room for children also received a facelift. Leon Hugo It also ensures that children receive the support they require when navigating the judicial process. She said the SAHRC acknowledged that children were among the most vulnerable members of society, often subjected to trauma and distress when they became involved in legal proceedings. "The transformation of these spaces from functional areas to inviting, child-friendly rooms is a crucial stride towards respecting and protecting the human rights of children, especially those experiencing trauma. It ensures that children's voices are heard and valued within our justice system," she said. ALSO READ | 'Deeply disturbing and unacceptable': More than 100 people killed in Western Cape in one week "These renovated rooms, now designed to resemble a comforting and safe environment, demonstrate a profound commitment to creating an atmosphere where children can feel secure while providing their testimony." Director of the children's rights group, Khula Community Development Project, Petros Majola, said the renovation created a conducive environment for children to open up in court. He said it was already difficult for a child to testify in an open court, and even when a witness could do so in-camera with an intermediary to assist, it was still challenging. "If the environment is not child-friendly, then the child will never be free to narrate and lead evidence," Majola said. "Children are the most vulnerable members of society, and their needs have to be catered for. I am glad that with this renovation, we are responding positively towards meeting the needs of children."

Source: News24