Social Development

The Department launched a child protection campaign on 31 May, but activities have, and continue to take place outside of the one-week period, in support of the 365 Days approach. The campaign messaging contained information about identifying the signs of abuse, reporting abuse, and helplines. Information has been promoted on social media, inside taxis, at local and regional offices, and the media. The information has been shared with all DSD offices, as well as our NGO network for further distribution.

Department officials across the province partnered with NGOs, SAPS, WCED, and other departments and municipalities to raise awareness and educate the public about child protection and the available services during this period.

Highlights include:

Officials based in the Karoo visited ECD centres where, using various methods such as puppet shows and plays, they educated children about recognising abuse as well as bullying, and how to report this. Children in primary schools were educated about their rights, recognising neglect, and parental responsibilities.

In partnership with SAPS, officials raised awareness at public spaces such as shopping centres in Mbekweni, by distributing and explaining the meaning behind the green ribbon. They also explained the meaning of bodily autonomy to children and how to exercise this.

Officials went door-to-door to raise awareness around child protection and gender-based violence in Mfuleni. Social workers were joined by the police and local neighbourhood watch.

In partnership with NGO A21 and WCED, an awareness programme was held with primary school children in Eerste River about human trafficking, exploitation, and possible dangers of social media.

Staff visited all courts serving the Metro South region, and engaged with court staff as well as clients, and distributed information about DSD services.