Be wary of child care centres in Orange Grove – Residents’ Association
Orange Grove Residents Association chairperson Roger Chadwick has warned against the growing number of alleged illegal child care centres operating in the area, which, he says, is a massive call for concern.
The City of Johannesburg’s public health bylaws clearly state, “No person may provide a child care service except on child care premises which comply with the requirements of Sections 101 to 116 and in terms of a permit authorising that activity.” According to Chadwick, some of the centres do not fully comply with these requirements and do not have a valid permit.
The law defines child care service as follows, “Any service, whether for gain or otherwise, for the reception, protection, care and bringing-up of more than six children.”
Chadwick said residents need to be aware of the legality of these centres before signing their children up. “We should not wait until something goes wrong before we do something about these [illegal] centres.” He urged parents to ensure that a centre operates within the law and is registered before putting the care of their children in the hands of strangers.
Chadwick said parents must ensure that centres adhere to the basic requirements which include an adequate sick-bay area, an adequately equipped first aid unit, and child-sized seating and tables for each child, among many other requirements.
