Local Child Welfare awaits guidance on how to operate during the lockdown
“Given the current pandemic that is causing a disaster and financial crisis for many homes, we unfortunately expect an increase in domestic violence and child abuse."
The Boksburg Child Welfare is still waiting for the Department of Social Development to provide guidance on how they should proceed during the national 21-day lockdown.
According to Vanessa Naidoo-Pillay, the director of Boksburg Child Welfare, they have not been listed as an essential service.
“We are confident that our foster parents and the child and youth care centres will ensure the children’s safety during this period and implement the necessary precautions. Some of the children are also on a leave of absence from the children’s home and are placed with their family and host parent,” said Naidoo-Pillay.
The organisation’s main concern is for the children who are at risk within their homes.
“Children who are exposed to domestic violence, gender-based violence or at risk of child abuse and neglect that goes unreported and will remain unreported during this period are a huge concern.
