Child protection week is celebrated every year and we commemorate it this year from 29 May to 5 June. Started in 1997, the aim is to focus on the protection and care of our children. The theme this year is “Let us all protect children to move South Africa forward”.
The following focus areas have been highlighted:
Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Albert Fritz, has encouraged communities to build strong family units and report any abuse or negligence of children to our any of offices, or contact the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Hotline on 0800 220 250.
DSD will launch Child Protection Week in Ocean View on Friday, 27 May 2016. There will be a Peace March, exhibitions by learners, the community and various stakeholders, a debate titled “My responsibility in Silencing the Violence – Increase the Peace” and entertainment. Those interested in participating in the Peace March, can meet at the following points at 11am:
1. Atlantic Hights – Flamingo Road
2. Hungry Hills and Ghost Town – New Apostolic Church
3. Seven Sisters – Casto Avenue
4. Stone Haven – Development Office
Child Protection
South African Police Service (SAPS) identifies children in need of care and protection as:
If you would like to report child abuse you can call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. You don’t have to identify yourself if you are reporting a case of abuse.
Social Development offers Child Protection Services which refers to the protection of a child up to the age of 18 who is in need of care.
This applies to any child if:
You can report suspicions of child neglect or abuse to the Social Worker, Community Worker or at your nearest social development office. You can also contact the Department of Social Development’s Hotline on 0800 220 250.
A Social Worker will assess each case and suggest what is best for the child.
Bullying and online victimisation
Bullying is a social issue usually associated within the school environment, however social media has brought about higher rates and more frequent instances of cyber bullying. Read more about how you can deal with the following issues:
There is also help if you are:
Other useful contacts include:
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
There are a number of useful services that are dedicated to help create the best life possible for your child. These include:
Take action against child abuse
It’s everyone’s responsibility to protect children from all kinds of exploitation and abuse.