Far East Crisis Centre
Government crisis centre / forensic care facility co-located with Far East Rand Hospital — a 780-bed regional public hospital serving the Springs, Brakpan, Benoni, and surrounding East Rand communities; provides forensic medical examination, J88, sexual assault kit evidence collection, PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV), STI treatment, emergency contraception, crisis counselling, and police liaison for GBV and sexual assault survivors
Contact & Location
- Far East Rand Hospital, Hospital St, Springs, 1559
Opening Hours
This organisation operates 24 hours.
About
The Far East Crisis Centre
The Crisis Centre at Far East Rand Hospital functions as the forensic care unit for sexual violence and GBV survivors in the hospital's catchment area. It is co-located with the hospital and accessible through the Casualty Department.
Services provided:
Forensic medical examination: A full clinical assessment conducted by a trained doctor or forensic nurse. The examination is explained in advance, consent is obtained, and a support person accompanies the survivor throughout.
J88 form: The official medico-legal document recording injuries, evidence of assault, and clinical findings. Completed by the examining clinician for use in criminal proceedings.
Sexual assault kit (SAK): Biological specimens and physical evidence collected under chain of custody protocols and submitted to the Forensic Science Laboratory for analysis.
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): Medication to prevent HIV transmission after potential exposure. Must be commenced within 72 hours of the assault. Provided free at the hospital; it is a 28-day course. PEP is most effective when started as soon as possible — do not delay.
STI treatment and emergency contraception: Prescribed as clinically appropriate.
Crisis counselling: On-site psychosocial support and emotional first aid provided by nurses and social workers.
Police case support: A SAPS member can attend the hospital to take a statement. The survivor does not need to open a case to receive medical care — that decision can be made later.
Your Rights as a Survivor
- You can receive medical care including PEP regardless of whether you open a police case.
- You have the right to a support person throughout the examination.
- You have the right to a social worker referral and counselling.
- You have the right to bathing facilities after the forensic examination.
- All services are free — no medical aid required.
Nearby Support
For ongoing counselling, legal support, or shelter in the East Rand area: - GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 (toll-free, 24/7) for referrals - FAMSA Johannesburg: 011 788 4784 - SAPS Springs (Domestic Violence Unit): 011 363 1111 / 10111
Far East Crisis Centre: Far East Rand Hospital, Hospital Street, Springs, 1559. Hospital: 011 812 8300. Casualty: 24 hours. Free. Forensic exam, J88, SAK, PEP (start within 72hrs), STI treatment, counselling, police liaison. Do not bathe or change clothes before presenting. GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 (toll-free, 24/7).