School holidays: Parents warned about child safety, GBV and trafficking - IOL

Parents and caregivers have been urged to step up supervision of children during the school holidays amid warnings about gender-based violence, sexual assault, abduction, and human trafficking.

Social Development Minister Dina Pule urged parents and guardians to know their children’s whereabouts, particularly when they are travelling, left at home, or spending time outdoors.

“Some of these children will be travelling to various holiday destinations, and South Africans are urged to ensure that their safety is not compromised,” Pule said.

“To remain proactive and prevent abuse, including gender-based violence and human trafficking, parents must always exercise caution and alert their neighbours or family members when children are left alone at home.”

Pule also warned parents against allowing children to roam the streets without a valid reason.

“Whenever possible, children must not be allowed to roam the streets without a valid reason, as they may become vulnerable to various forms of abuse, including abduction, sexual assault, and human trafficking,” she said.

SAPS has also been consistently issuing child-safety notices as the holiday gets under way, calling on parents and caregivers to remain vigilant.

“Constant supervision of children is key to their safety. Children can wander off in the blink of an eye. Parents and caregivers should ensure that their children are safe at all times,” SAPS said.

The safety concerns extend beyond the physical environment, with the Department of Basic Education previously warning families about online risks including cyberbullying, online predators, and sexual exploitation.

Parents have been urged to monitor children’s online activity and talk to them about who they interact with, while children should avoid sharing personal information, photographs, or their location with strangers.

Families travelling or visiting busy public spaces are also encouraged to have basic safety measures in place. Children should know their parents’ or guardians’ contact numbers and which trusted adults they can approach if they feel unsafe.

Parents should also act immediately if a child goes missing. There is no 24-hour waiting period before a missing child can be reported to police.

Pule said child protection was a collective responsibility involving families, communities, civil society organisations, and faith-based organisations.

Her warning forms part of the government’s 365 Days Comprehensive Child Protection Campaign, while the Department of Social Development is responsible for implementing Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre will remain operational 24 hours a day throughout the school holidays.

Anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or experiencing violence can contact the GBV Command Centre on 0800 428 428, send a Please Call Me to *120*7867#, or SMS “Help” to 31531.

With children spending more time away from school, authorities are urging adults to remain alert to their whereabouts, who they are with, and the environments they are entering.