Latest news with #ActNo.38
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Child Protection Week 2025: Stand up for children, speak out for their rights
Child Protection Week 2025: Stand up for children, speak out for their 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. 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
06-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Children's rights and how to spot abuse
Children's rights and how to spot abuse As National Child Protection Week drew to a close on June 5, parents are urged to educate their children about their rights. National Child Protection Week is commemorated from May 29 to June 5. This year's theme was 'Working together in ending violence against children'. The week serves to raise awareness of the rights of children as articulated in the Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005). Under the act, each South African child is entitled to: – A name and nationality. – Family care or appropriate alternative care. – Basic nutrition, shelter, healthcare and social services. – Protection from neglect, maltreatment and abuse. – Protection from exploitative labour services, including work or services that are inappropriate. – Protection from being used in armed conflict and protection during times of armed conflict. Tshwane District Health Social Worker Agnes Mathebula says there are various signs of physical and emotional abuse that parents can look out for should they occur. 'We identify signs of abuse either physically or through looking at the behaviour of the child. Physically, you'll see things like bruises, fractures, cigarette burns and things like that, those aren't too difficult to identify. But the emotional abuse can be difficult to spot,' Mathebula says. Behavioural indicators may include fear of parents, alterations in behaviour, withdrawn or aggressive tendencies or academic difficulties. The Department of Social Development has a pilot 24-hour call centre dedicated to providing 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 cellphone. You can also get help at: Childline South Africa: 116 Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453), 011 452-4110 or e-mail: info@ ALSO READ: Your ultimate weekend plans in Pretoria Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
The Citizen
03-06-2025
- 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
03-06-2025
- 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
03-06-2025
- 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!
