RAPCAN does not really have a wish list as such as our work is very specific and related mainly to training and advocacy.  However, our Child Witness Project, which runs in several Sexual Offences Courts in and around Cape Town, always needs certain things.

 

Testifying in court can be a frightening experience for anyone.  Children who have to testify in court are frightened, to the point of being immobilised, as they do not know what is expected of them, and they have to discuss very personal matters in front of complete strangers.  Therefore they cannot fulfil their potential as witnesses.  Children and their caregivers need to be empowered with information and skills to enable them to be confident and effective witnesses, and to come through the process of testifying in court with minimal trauma.  In addition, on the day of a trial, children often arrive cold, tired and hungry.  Anyone who has ever been to court will know that one spends a lot of time just waiting.

 

In addition, the materials and resource development aspect of our work has grown to the point where our current computer equipment is inadequate, and should be replaced.

Finally, we are fortunate to have really nice offices in Retreat, in Cape Town.  What we need for these is to paint the walls, and create an attractive small container garden, and furnish a small lounge and meeting room.