National Child Protection Week 2021

Sunday marks the start of National Child Protection Week.

The week, which runs until 6 June, is commemorated in the country annually to raise awareness of the rights of children.

This year's theme: ''Let us protect Children during COVID-19 and beyond.''

Government has called on citizens to support Child Protection Week by ensuring that the most vulnerable in our society do not suffer abuse.

‘’It is in our hands to stop the cycle of neglect, abuse, violence and exploitation of children. 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,’’ it said in a statement.

The Western Cape Social Development MEC, Sharna Fernandez, welcomes the launch of the official launch of the National Child Protection Week.

“As we commemorate Child Protection Week, we must reflect on the toll Covid-19 has taken on the physical, emotional, developmental, spiritual and mental wellbeing of our children.’’

Many of their lives have been upended. For the most at-risk and vulnerable, it may have meant being cut off from support systems and being trapped inside homes, with their abusers,” said Fernandez.

The MEC added that citizens should not neglect children and to always keep an eye on them.

“Whilst we have less contact with each other due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are duty-bound as a whole of society, to remain vigilant, take the signs of abuse seriously, and report all pleas for help by vulnerable children immediately.’’

 

If you suspect a child is being abused, neglected or exposed to violence, report it to the following channels:

·        Calling the Western Cape Department of Social Development toll free: 0800 220 250

·        Calling the SAPS crime stop hotline: 10111

·        Calling Childline: 0861 322 322; or

·        Calling Child Welfare SA: 0861 424 453

 

Done By: Mitchum George