Brakpan police joined hands with different stakeholders to commemorate the start of Child Protection Month with a safety talk at Brenthurst Primary School on April 29.

Child Protection Month is observed annually in May to raise awareness and strengthen efforts to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children.

Other stakeholders involved on the day were the EMPD social crime prevention unit, the Department of Health, Brakpan Clinic, Department of Social Development, Far East Rand Hospital’s Crisis Centre, and non-profit organisations Village of Hope and Uyasiphumelelisa.

Programmes under child protection commemorations include awareness through media, schools, community outreach initiatives to educate the public about children’s rights, protection measures, health and education initiatives, and support services.

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“The 2024/25 statistics in South Africa show that 26 852 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported, with sexual abuse being the most common with 9 859 cases, followed by child neglect with 9 485 cases, and physical abuse with 3 965 cases,” said Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer, Constable Audrey Buthelezi.

“The stakeholders addressed bullying, road safety, how to avoid being kidnapped, sexual safety and ended with positive self affirmations to grade four and five learners.

“The stakeholders will collaboratively continue with interactions at schools to address safety issues and provide support services to children.”

Buthelezi added that SAPS encourages the public to actively participate in child protection by reporting abuse and neglect, supporting local shelters and child protection organisations, and promoting safe environments for children in schools, communities, and homes.

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