Know the warning signs of child abuse

MALALANE – In the past couple of weeks there have been several cases of child abuse and rape reported in the area.

Ms Amanda de Swart of the local SAPS victim-empowerment centre works with many of these victims, their families and even the perpetrators, and said people need to be more vigilant and teach their children to speak out.

They need to be taught from a young age to say no when being touched inappropriately or abused, and to speak to relatives about anything they are uncomfortable with. Parents and relatives in turn need to listen and cultivate an atmosphere of trust and openness. If children confess to being uncomfortable around someone, ask them about it and do not force them into close contact with the person.

In many cases, abusers are known to the victims, but the children are either threatened to keep silent or don’t feel comfortable confessing to their parents.

According to Childline South Africa the following behaviour can manifest in abused children:

• Sadness

• Bedwetting

• Fear of adults or other children

• Feeling ashamed

• Low self-esteem

• Unable to pay attention

• Aggression or anger

• Self-harm (like cutting oneself)

• Suicide

• Being naughty at home or in the classroom

Signs of physical abuse include:

• Unexplained bruises, marks or burns

• Fractures

• Cuts

• Bite marks

• Bruises on the head

• Unbelievable explanations for injuries.

According to the Children’s Act and the Sexual Offences Act, people must report any abuse they suspect or witness, otherwise they are breaking the law.

De Swart encourages people to visit or contact her at the victim-empowerment centre. She will even assist in opening a case or giving advice on how to handle a situation. If you’d prefer to remain anonymous or don’t feel comfortable to visit the local police station, you can contact Childline on its toll-free number 080-005-5555 to report any offences.

The SAPS is also running several child-safety projects and raising awareness regarding crime and abuse in local schools through, among others, a puppet theatre.

There is also a serious shortage of places of safety at which to keep children after being removed from a dangerous environment or during the police investigation. Amazing Grace, an orphanage in town is registered as a place of safety and can temporarily house children removed from their homes by SAPS or social workers.

Community members who would like to register as parents of safety and temporarily take these children under their wings, or would like more information on the subject can contact De Swart on 072-371-8993.