Children are among the most vulnerable members of society and need special protection. They're dependent on their parents, families and the government for their protection and well-being. Their best interests are always the main consideration when it comes to any matter affecting them.
Child protection is everybody’s responsibility and we want a South Africa where all children are free from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Children’s rights are an important part of our Constitution, and have been included in Section 28 of the Bill of Rights.
On National Children’s Day, which is celebrated on the first Saturday in November every year, we aim to celebrate and highlight the progress being made towards the realisation and promotion of children’s rights.
Children’s Rights
In the Constitution, section 28 of the Bill of Rights deals directly with the rights of children. In this section "child" means a person under the age of 18 years. A child’s best interests are the most important in every matter concerning the child.
According to section 28 every child has the right:
The Children's Act 38/2005 makes it a criminal offence if a person who has to maintain a child doesn't provide the child with clothes, housing and medical care.
Primarily the Children’s Act is aimed at giving effect to the constitutional rights of children, including:
Other legislation protecting children
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), "child abuse or maltreatment constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power."
In other words, abuse is when someone in a position of responsibility, trust or power knowingly harms or exploits a child, either physically or emotionally.
Please report any abuse or negligence to the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) hotline on 0800 220 250.
Other useful contacts
Lifeline Western Cape
Tel: 0861 322 322
Email: info@lifelinewesterncape.org.za
Child Welfare South Africa
Tel: 0861 424 453
Email: info@childwelfaresa.org.za
From children's rights to children's realities
More information
A MOD Centre is a hub for sport, recreation, arts and culture activities for learners in a community.
The Youth Development Strategy has opened the way for projects like our Youth Cafés, which offer skills development programmes.
Apply for this programme if you’d like to tutor primary and high school learners. Year Beyond is an educational outreach programme that aims to assist underperforming schools, while giving you the opportunity to gain new skills.