There are a range of projects which form part of the Network, and which intervene at different points on the crime prevention continuum. Four projects were selected for this award. The Edendale Anti-Crime Project is a joint initiative between local government and the South African Police Services which seeks to address the high crime rate in the area by promoting good working relationships between the SAPS, Pietermaritzburg-Msunduzi TLC and the communities of Greater Edendale.
Effectiveness: The Secure Care facility For Awaiting Trial Juveniles provides an appropriate secure care facility in the KZN Midlands region so that awaiting trial juveniles may be housed in secure and humane facility where the chances of rehabilitation are greater than in prison. The School Safety Plan has attempted to put in place a range of activities, focused on providing skills and opportunities to youth at disadvantaged schools, as well as focus on the issue of crime. Some of these projects are school safety patrols, Teenagers Against Drugs, an Adopt-a-Cop programme, and school protection and security.
The Plessislaer Victim Support Centre is run by the Centre for Criminal Justice, with support from the SAPS, and other NGOs, such as Nicro. Services are provided to all victims of crime, with an emphasis on women and children. The services of the Centre are aimed at assisting and empowering women and children from a disadvantaged environment, particularly with regard to their legal and human rights. The project provides a non-threatening environment within which victims of rape, domestic violence and child abuse can report the crime and be given legal advice and counseling.
Since its beginnings, the arrest and conviction rate of criminals committing serious crime in the area has more than doubled, with the South African Police Services enjoying steadily growing acceptance and support from the communities in which they work .
"The success of the anti-crime network lies in the fact that all partners are committed to working together to create a secure and safe environment. This encourages investment and development in our city, which directly benefits all sectors of the community" Siphiwe Gwala, Mayor of Pietermaritzburg.