Group of Family Sexual Offence Unit of the ODPP with representatives of the stakeholders
As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable victims of crime, The Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Andrew Kelesi on behalf of his office (ODPP) has donated a selection of toys and supportive materials to three of its valued service providers: Hope Trust, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Sexual Assault Unit, and the Christian Care Centre.
These donations aim to enhance the care and support provided to victims, especially children who are often traumatised and vulnerable when engaging with the justice process. The materials, including age-appropriate toys, comforting items, and basic resources, are intended to create a more supportive and child-friendly environment in the spaces where victims are interviewed, counselled, or sheltered.
ODPP’s Commitment to Victim-Centred Justice
The ODPP recognises that access to justice must not only be effective but also compassionate. Prosecuting crimes particularly cases involving sexual assault requires a coordinated, trauma-informed approach that puts the needs of victims at the centre. The ODPP works closely with key front-line organisations to ensure that victims receive the care, protection, and support they deserve from the moment they report a crime to the final resolution in court.
Hope Trust
Hope Trust plays a vital role in providing psychosocial support to victims of gender-based violence, sexual assault, and domestic abuse. Through counselling, trauma recovery programs, and advocacy, Hope Trust helps survivors rebuild their confidence and participate in the justice process with dignity and hope. Their work is essential in ensuring that victims are emotionally prepared to give statements, testify in court, or engage in rehabilitation services.
RSIPF Sexual Assault Unit
The RSIPF Sexual Assault Unit is often the first point of contact for victims of sexual offences. The unit is responsible for conducting sensitive interviews, collecting forensic evidence, and building strong investigative files that support prosecutions. Their work requires not only technical skill but also empathy and discretion, especially when dealing with children or survivors of extreme trauma. The ODPP collaborates closely with the unit to ensure that cases are handled professionally and compassionately from the outset.
Christian Care Centre
The Christian Care Centre provides temporary safe accommodation, counselling, and holistic support to women and children fleeing violence or abuse. Operated by the Sisters of the Church and the Church of Melanesia, the Centre has long been a refuge for victims in need of shelter, care, and emotional healing. By offering a safe space, the Centre plays an indispensable role in protecting victims and stabilising their situations while legal proceedings are underway.
Strengthening Partnerships
These donations are a small but meaningful gesture of appreciation for the crucial roles these organisations play in Solomon Islands’ justice ecosystem. The ODPP acknowledges that the path to justice is not walked alone, but it requires the collective effort of dedicated service providers who support, protect, and empower victims every step of the way.
Speaking on behalf of the Christian Care Centre, Mrs. Florence Taro stated that victims of family violence require comprehensive support that extends beyond mental and emotional assistance. She emphasized that providing basic necessities such as pillows and blankets significantly contributes to their recovery process.
Staff Sergeant David Foa of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force thanked the ODPP for the toys and other items, noting that these resources will add considerable value to their work as first responders who interact with vulnerable victims daily.
Mr. Prema Maeto, Director of Hope Trust, acknowledged the ODPP’s assistance and highlighted how challenging it can be to work with children. He explained that items like toys and other child-friendly resources can instantly improve children’s moods and mindset during difficult situations.
All representatives agreed that while the assistance may seem modest, it will significantly enhance their ability to serve the community effectively.
The Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Andrew Kelesi emphasis that the ODPP looks forward to continued collaboration with Hope Trust, the RSIPF Sexual Assault Unit, and the Christian Care Centre in its shared mission to uphold the rule of law, protect the rights of victims, and ensure that justice is delivered with integrity and compassion.
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[Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions]
