National Child Protection Week is commemorated in the country annually to raise awareness of the rights of children as articulated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005).
South Africa has drafted legislation, based on the United Convention of the Rights of the Child, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the Constitution.
The campaign began in 1997 and it aims to mobilise all sectors of society to ensure that children and cared for and protected. While the initiative is led by the Minister of Social Development, it is every citizen’s duty to a role in protecting children and creating a safe and secure environment for them.
Children in South Africa live in a society with a Constitution that has the highest regard for their rights and for the equality and dignity of everyone. Protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is not only a basic value but also an obligation clearly set out in Article 28 of the South African Constitution.
Get help
The Department of Social Development has a pilot a 24-hour call centre dedicated to provide support and counselling to victims of gender-based violence:
- The toll-free number to call is 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV) to speak to a social worker for assistance and counselling.
- Callers can also request a social worker from the Command Centre to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone.
Yout can also get help at:
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
- Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 / e-mail: info@childwelfaresa.org.za
IRIS HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE IS A REGISTERED CHILD PROTECTION AGENCY
During the child protection week, we will be distributing care parcels and cloth masks to over 30 special needs children in safety and foster care. As well as conducting health checks conducted by our Hospice Nurse. We have been tasked with training 60 safety/foster parents by April 2021 to be able to care for special needs children in need of placements. It is our aim to ensure that these marginalised, vulnerable children have the opportunity to be cared for by loving, caring parents and not subjected to abuse and neglect in their own homes.