Report a Concern
Don’t wait until you are certain if you are worried about a child. If you have any concerns or suspicions talk to us now. We will listen, advise and investigate any concern or suspicion.
Child Welfare Helderberg
Office: 021 852 3126
(Hours 8:00 – 16:00)
Department of Social Development
A/H: 078 904 1690
South African Police Service
021 850 1303
WHAT TO DO IF A CHILD DISCLOSES ABUSE
Listen. Do not fill in words for the child.
If the child is having a difficult time talking – don’t help the child with words that you think the child is going to say. Allow the child to tell you what happened in their own words.
Tell the child that you are glad they told you.
Reassure the child that they are not in trouble.
If the child asks you not to tell anyone, remind the child that it is your job to help keep them safe and you will do whatever you may need to do to keep them safe.
Do not be overly critical of the offender. Children are protective of people that they care about, even if they are being abused.
Don’t express panic or shock.
Use the child’s vocabulary to the child and when reporting
Be aware of your own feelings about abuse so that hopefuly you will not project these on the child.
Do not ask probing questions.
Tell the child you believe them.
REMEMBER YOU MUST REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE!
How can YOU help us?
CONTACT US:
+27 (0) 21 852 3126
info@childwelfarehelderberg.co.za
NGO Reg No: 003 239
PBO Reg No: 930030822
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