Latest news with #ActNo.38
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Stand up for children: Support Child Protection Week 2025
Child Protection Week is an annual campaign in South Africa aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. It is a time to promote collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of every child. In 2025, Child Protection Week will be observed from May 29 to June 5. While the week helps focus national attention, child protection must be a daily commitment. Children face risks throughout the year, and safeguarding their rights requires ongoing vigilance, education, and action from individuals, families, communities, and institutions. Ongoing efforts are essential to break cycles of abuse and create a safer, more supportive society for future generations. Here is how you can get it: Know the law and your duty South Africa's Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) place a legal and moral obligation on every adult to protect children. Understanding Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, is the first step towards meaningful action. Be the eyes and ears If you witness or suspect abuse, don't stay silent. Reporting abuse can save lives. Know the signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Children may not always speak out, but their behaviour often does. Empower children with knowledge Teach children about their rights in age-appropriate ways. Equip them with the tools to speak up and seek help if they feel unsafe at home, at school, or online. Trusted adults, teachers and caregivers must create safe spaces for these conversations. Support child-focused organisations Donate, volunteer, or partner with NGOs and community organisations working in child protection. Their work is vital and often under-resourced. Use your skills, time or platforms to make a difference. Keep an eye on digital dangers Online grooming, bullying, and exploitation are increasing threats. Monitor children's online activities, activate parental controls, and have open conversations about internet safety. Make child safety everyone's business Encourage schools, religious institutions, sports clubs, and community groups to observe Child Protection Week. Hosting workshops, poster drives, or awareness talks can amplify the message that every child matters. Break the silence on abuse Stigma and silence perpetuate abuse. Survivors and allies must be supported to speak out. Share real stories (with consent) during Child Protection Week to shine a light on both the pain and the hope of recovery. Challenge harmful norms Cultural practices or social beliefs should never justify child abuse. Take a stand against harmful traditions, bullying, and gender-based violence in all its forms. Lead by example Children watch what we do more than what we say. Show respect, kindness and non-violence in your own actions, whether as a parent, neighbour or community leader. Save these vital numbers: Keep these helplines easily accessible and share them in your networks: • Department of Social Development (24/7 GBV Command Centre): 0800 428 428 (Toll-free) • Dial *120*7867# (free from any mobile phone) to request a call-back • Childline South Africa: 116 • Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 • Email: info@ This year's theme echoes a vital truth: 'It's in our hands to stop the cycle'. Let's build a society where children are protected, nurtured, and given the chance to thrive, not just during Child Protection Week, but every day. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Protect SA's children: Your role matters
Child Protection Week is an annual campaign in South Africa aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. It is a time to promote collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of every child. In 2025, Child Protection Week will be observed from May 29 to June 5. While the week helps focus national attention, child protection must be a daily commitment. Children face risks throughout the year, and safeguarding their rights requires ongoing vigilance, education, and action from individuals, families, communities, and institutions. Ongoing efforts are essential to break cycles of abuse and create a safer, more supportive society for future generations. Here is how you can get it: Know the law and your duty South Africa's Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) place a legal and moral obligation on every adult to protect children. Understanding Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, is the first step towards meaningful action. Be the eyes and ears If you witness or suspect abuse, don't stay silent. Reporting abuse can save lives. Know the signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Children may not always speak out, but their behaviour often does. Empower children with knowledge Teach children about their rights in age-appropriate ways. Equip them with the tools to speak up and seek help if they feel unsafe at home, at school, or online. Trusted adults, teachers and caregivers must create safe spaces for these conversations. Support child-focused organisations Donate, volunteer, or partner with NGOs and community organisations working in child protection. Their work is vital and often under-resourced. Use your skills, time or platforms to make a difference. Keep an eye on digital dangers Online grooming, bullying, and exploitation are increasing threats. Monitor children's online activities, activate parental controls, and have open conversations about internet safety. Make child safety everyone's business Encourage schools, religious institutions, sports clubs, and community groups to observe Child Protection Week. Hosting workshops, poster drives, or awareness talks can amplify the message that every child matters. Break the silence on abuse Stigma and silence perpetuate abuse. Survivors and allies must be supported to speak out. Share real stories (with consent) during Child Protection Week to shine a light on both the pain and the hope of recovery. Challenge harmful norms Cultural practices or social beliefs should never justify child abuse. Take a stand against harmful traditions, bullying, and gender-based violence in all its forms. Lead by example Children watch what we do more than what we say. Show respect, kindness and non-violence in your own actions, whether as a parent, neighbour or community leader. Save these vital numbers: Keep these helplines easily accessible and share them in your networks: • Department of Social Development (24/7 GBV Command Centre): 0800 428 428 (Toll-free) • Dial *120*7867# (free from any mobile phone) to request a call-back • Childline South Africa: 116 • Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 • Email: info@ This year's theme echoes a vital truth: 'It's in our hands to stop the cycle'. Let's build a society where children are protected, nurtured, and given the chance to thrive, not just during Child Protection Week, but every day. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Child Protection Week 2025: It's in our hands to safeguard children's rights
Child Protection Week 2025: It's in our hands to safeguard children's rights Child Protection Week is an annual campaign in South Africa aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. It is a time to promote collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of every child. In 2025, Child Protection Week will be observed from May 29 to June 5. While the week helps focus national attention, child protection must be a daily commitment. Children face risks throughout the year, and safeguarding their rights requires ongoing vigilance, education, and action from individuals, families, communities, and institutions. Ongoing efforts are essential to break cycles of abuse and create a safer, more supportive society for future generations. Here is how you can get it: Know the law and your duty South Africa's Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) place a legal and moral obligation on every adult to protect children. Understanding Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, is the first step towards meaningful action. Be the eyes and ears If you witness or suspect abuse, don't stay silent. Reporting abuse can save lives. Know the signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Children may not always speak out, but their behaviour often does. Empower children with knowledge Teach children about their rights in age-appropriate ways. Equip them with the tools to speak up and seek help if they feel unsafe at home, at school, or online. Trusted adults, teachers and caregivers must create safe spaces for these conversations. Support child-focused organisations Donate, volunteer, or partner with NGOs and community organisations working in child protection. Their work is vital and often under-resourced. Use your skills, time or platforms to make a difference. Keep an eye on digital dangers Online grooming, bullying, and exploitation are increasing threats. Monitor children's online activities, activate parental controls, and have open conversations about internet safety. Make child safety everyone's business Encourage schools, religious institutions, sports clubs, and community groups to observe Child Protection Week. Hosting workshops, poster drives, or awareness talks can amplify the message that every child matters. Break the silence on abuse Stigma and silence perpetuate abuse. Survivors and allies must be supported to speak out. Share real stories (with consent) during Child Protection Week to shine a light on both the pain and the hope of recovery. Challenge harmful norms Cultural practices or social beliefs should never justify child abuse. Take a stand against harmful traditions, bullying, and gender-based violence in all its forms. Lead by example Children watch what we do more than what we say. Show respect, kindness and non-violence in your own actions, whether as a parent, neighbour or community leader. Save these vital numbers: Keep these helplines easily accessible and share them in your networks: • Department of Social Development (24/7 GBV Command Centre): 0800 428 428 (Toll-free) • Dial *120*7867# (free from any mobile phone) to request a call-back • Childline South Africa: 116 • Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 • Email: info@ This year's theme echoes a vital truth: 'It's in our hands to stop the cycle'. Let's build a society where children are protected, nurtured, and given the chance to thrive, not just during Child Protection Week, but every day. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Tips for supporting Child Protection Week 2025
Child Protection Week is an annual campaign in South Africa aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. It is a time to promote collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of every child. In 2025, Child Protection Week will be observed from May 29 to June 5. While the week helps focus national attention, child protection must be a daily commitment. Children face risks throughout the year, and safeguarding their rights requires ongoing vigilance, education, and action from individuals, families, communities, and institutions. Ongoing efforts are essential to break cycles of abuse and create a safer, more supportive society for future generations. Here is how you can get it: Know the law and your duty South Africa's Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) place a legal and moral obligation on every adult to protect children. Understanding Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, is the first step towards meaningful action. Be the eyes and ears If you witness or suspect abuse, don't stay silent. Reporting abuse can save lives. Know the signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Children may not always speak out, but their behaviour often does. Empower children with knowledge Teach children about their rights in age-appropriate ways. Equip them with the tools to speak up and seek help if they feel unsafe at home, at school, or online. Trusted adults, teachers and caregivers must create safe spaces for these conversations. Support child-focused organisations Donate, volunteer, or partner with NGOs and community organisations working in child protection. Their work is vital and often under-resourced. Use your skills, time or platforms to make a difference. Keep an eye on digital dangers Online grooming, bullying, and exploitation are increasing threats. Monitor children's online activities, activate parental controls, and have open conversations about internet safety. Make child safety everyone's business Encourage schools, religious institutions, sports clubs, and community groups to observe Child Protection Week. Hosting workshops, poster drives, or awareness talks can amplify the message that every child matters. Break the silence on abuse Stigma and silence perpetuate abuse. Survivors and allies must be supported to speak out. Share real stories (with consent) during Child Protection Week to shine a light on both the pain and the hope of recovery. Challenge harmful norms Cultural practices or social beliefs should never justify child abuse. Take a stand against harmful traditions, bullying, and gender-based violence in all its forms. Lead by example Children watch what we do more than what we say. Show respect, kindness and non-violence in your own actions, whether as a parent, neighbour or community leader. Save these vital numbers: Keep these helplines easily accessible and share them in your networks: • Department of Social Development (24/7 GBV Command Centre): 0800 428 428 (Toll-free) • Dial *120*7867# (free from any mobile phone) to request a call-back • Childline South Africa: 116 • Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 • Email: info@ This year's theme echoes a vital truth: 'It's in our hands to stop the cycle'. Let's build a society where children are protected, nurtured, and given the chance to thrive, not just during Child Protection Week, but every day. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
4 days ago
- The Citizen
Dr Yusuf Dadoo shines spotlight on child safety
To ensure çhild safety, Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital's Social Work Department hosted the Child Protection Awareness Campaign recently. • Also read: 260 arrested for crimes committed against women and children According to the project co-ordinator, Madi Mononela, the purpose was to engage caregivers, professionals and community members on the issues regarding child abuse and neglect. The day was also meant to encourage a collective action to safeguard children. There is a sterling need to promote a safe, loving, and supportive environment for the young ones, where they can feel protected, empowered, and free to grow up with good memories that shape their future positively.' As usual, a green ribbon was the order of the day, symbolising an alarm to promote child safety. One of the parents present, Poppy Gone, advised on continuous awareness as it is a great initiative. 'Children are the future generation that needs to be protected from bullies and all manner of attacks at all times,' she said. National Child Protection Week is commemorated in the country annually to raise awareness of the rights of children according to the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005). The week is an important event on the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) calendar and has been celebrated in South Africa since 1997. Madi added that the campaign is led by the Department of Social Development in partnership with key government departments and civil society organisations, rendering child protection services. 'The government calls on all South Africans 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. 'Children in South Africa live in a society with a Constitution that has the highest regard for their rights and the equality and dignity of everyone. Protecting children from violence, exploitation, and abuse is not only a basic value but also an obligation set out in Article 28 of the South African Constitution.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
