Make sure you know where your child is

While many revelers rang in the new year on beaches across the Western Cape, staff from the provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) provided support to children who were separated from their families.

This is an annual occurrence as parents or caregivers lose track of their children, or in extreme cases, forget them after a day out.

DSD social workers and other professionals assist municipal officials like those from the City of Cape Town to ensure these children are then reunited with their families. Between 15 December 2023 and 01 January 2024, 8 children were reported as separated from their families in different areas in the Cape Metro and reunited by DSD staff. There were various other incidents of alleged neglect and abuse that staff had to attend to in parts of the city.

Compared to last year during the same period, there were thankfully fewer cases of children needing to be relocated in places of safety as a result of being left on a beach. However, caution is still required.

“In these final days of the school holiday, I urge parents and caregivers not to drop the ball when they are out in a public place with their children. The beaches are still packed, therefore constant vigilance is required. Please adhere to the law and refrain from drinking in these spaces, especially where young children are present and require attention. If you are returning to work, please ensure your child is in the care of a trusted individual who will keep a watchful eye over them,” says Provincial Minister of Social Development Sharna Fernandez.

A few tips for caregivers on how to keep children safe:

• Ensure that your child knows their own full names, your full names, address, and a contact number. If they are lost, this information can be vital in quickly tracing the parents or caregivers.

• Always know where your children are, and who they are with. When leaving children with other adults – whether they are family, friends, neighbours – ask them to inform you if they intend leaving the premises, for example, a trip to the beach.

• Ensure that your child, particularly young children, are supervised at all times. Very young children need constant supervision, as accidents can happen very quickly. Whether it’s near a body of water, out at a park, or inside a house, please always be vigilant.

Helpful contact numbers:

Childline: 116

Stop Gender-Based Violence helpline: 0800 150 150

SAPS: 08600 10111

Report any abuse of children, women, the elderly, or any other vulnerable person to the Department of Social Development’s toll-free number: 0800 220 250.

Department of Social Development Email: SD.CustomerCare@westerncape.gov.za or visit your nearest DSD office, or the department’s website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/dept/social-development