Get involved and become a safety parent

The Department of Social Development (DSD) believes that families are the best environment for children to grow and thrive. However, in some situations, a child’s safety requires immediate removal from their home.

Safety parents play a vital role by providing temporary care for vulnerable children who are in need of protection. They offer a safe, supportive home while court processes and child protection investigations are underway.

What is a safety parent?

A safety parent is a responsible adult (18 years or older) who provides temporary care for children at risk.

• A safety parent may care for up to six children at a time, unless they are siblings.
• They act as a short-term safety net, ensuring children are protected during emergencies.

Why Become a Safety Parent?

If you have a passion for helping children and want to make a meaningful difference, you can partner with DSD by opening your home to children in need of care and protection.

Requirements

To become a safety parent, you must:

• Have a genuine interest in the wellbeing of children at risk
• Obtain a police clearance
• You and all adults in your home must be vetted against the Child Protection Register (Form 30)
• Receive formal approval from DSD to provide temporary safe care (Form 29)

Please note:
Because placements are often urgent, safety parents must be available at short notice.

What happens After You Apply?

All applicants go through a thorough screening process to assess suitability.

If approved, you will:

• Receive training on:
  • The Children’s Act
  • Roles and responsibilities of safety parents
  • Caring for vulnerable and traumatised children
• Be provided with basic support, including:
  • An emergency care kit (e.g. nappies and formula for infants)
  • A daily stipend to assist with the child’s care

Get Involved 

DSD encourages community members to volunteer and help strengthen the network of safety parents across the province.

To apply or find out more:

• Visit your nearest DSD local office
• Call the DSD hotline: 0800 220 250

Contact information and support

If you suspect a child is being abused, neglected, or exposed to violence, please report it immediately:

• DSD Hotline (Western Cape): 0800 220 250
• SAPS Crime Stop: 10111
• Childline: 116
• Child Welfare SA: 0861 424 453