NEWCASTLE KZN: SAPS urges children to know their rights
Children should have open communication with their parents, guardians or a trusted adult.
While children indeed have the right to be taken care of and to feel safe, they may still face the harsh reality of modern life and dangerous situations.
Bearing this in mind, SAPS Newcastle has provided a set of basic safety rules for children to follow, in the event they find themselves in trouble.
In general, SAPS advises children to ‘be smart, be safe’ and has provided the following tips for youths:
- Always consult parents or guardians before getting into a vehicle, even with a person you may know
- Always consult parents or guardians before accepting gifts or favours, especially from strangers
- Always take a friend with when leaving the home, particularly to a location or venue you are unfamiliar with
- Remember and store important contact details like parents’ addresses and cell phone numbers
- Say ‘no’ to any person who offers work or who makes you feel uncomfortable with their advances
- Know who you can talk to if you are scared, confused or uncomfortable – this could be a parent or a trusted adult
- Remember that it is okay to say ‘no’ and to ask someone for help
SAPS Newcastle has also provided additional advice for children who are considering running away from home. This is a dangerous last resort which could cause more harm than good.
For youths who are considering running away from home:
- Remember there is a solution to every problem, no matter how hopeless the situation may appear
- Running away from home can be frightening for both you and your parents/ guardians
- Being alone increases the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, opens doors for crime and could even put you at risk of sexual exploitation (including pornography and prostitution rings), kidnapping and abduction.
SAPS advises children keep an open line of communication and trust between themselves and their parents, or at least a trusted adult.
“Try to resolve problems which may prompt you to run away. If you really cannot deal with family or personal problems, seek the intervention and assistance of a social worker. Remember, you are strong smart and have the right to say no,” adds Lizzy Arumugam from the SAPS Corporate Communication office.
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