Resources
Useful contacts and information for families, caregivers and anyone who wants to help keep children safe.
Emergency and helpline numbers
Recognising when a child may need help
Every situation is different, but some signs can mean a child is not safe or not coping. These include unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behaviour, fear of going home, being often hungry or unwashed, missing a lot of school, or a child telling you something worrying.
If a child tells you about abuse: stay calm, listen, tell them they did the right thing by telling you, do not promise to keep it secret, and report it to the police, Childline or social services as soon as possible.
Children's rights in South Africa
Section 28 of the Constitution of South Africa protects children's rights, including the right to family or parental care (or appropriate alternative care), basic nutrition, shelter, health care and social services, and protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse and degradation. The Children's Act 38 of 2005 sets out how children are cared for and protected.
Support for families
- Child support grants and other social grants are administered by SASSA. Applications are made at a SASSA office.
- Local clinics offer free primary health care for children, including immunisations and growth monitoring.
Our policies
Read our safeguarding policy, privacy policy and complaints process.
Help us keep children safe
Your support helps Khumbulani Children's Place of Safety care for and protect children in Khayelitsha.