Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital observed child protection week
This year's child protection week theme is: Let us Protect Children during Covid-19 and Beyond.
Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital staff observed child protection week from 29 May- 2 June under the theme of the hospital’s namesake.
National Child Protection Week is commemorated in the country annually to raise awareness of the rights of children as articulated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005). The campaign is led by the Department of Social Development in partnership with key government departments and civil society organisations rendering child protection services.
Head of Charlotte Maxeke Teddy Bear Clinic Dr Efrat Barmes said different topics about child protection were tackled during the five days.
“On Monday we launched child protection week in our pediatric polyclinic and emergency department and were joined by Dr P Africa our, clinical director for mother and child, Tuesday was ‘spread the warmth day’ where blankets, beanies and warm teddy bears were distributed, Wednesday we had face painting and education about hot water burns and abusive head injuries, which arise from shaking neonates and infants and on Thursday we spoke about teenage pregnancies and child trafficking.”
SAPS specialist investigating officer, Colonel Joyce Buthelezi noted that although observation weeks like child protection and 16 days of activism were about educating the public, it was a time when heinous crimes against women and children went up which was alarming.
The colonel added that child protection week is a time when communities including authorities are supposed to be working together to keep children safe.
The hospital’s CEO, Gladys Bogoshi said “Child protection week is a time to reflect as parents and communities on the part we play in children’s lives whether good or bad.”
Afrika Tikkun social worker, Debora Sibuie added that child protection week was a reminder that it takes a village to raise a child.
“Afrika Tikkun works with mostly children who come from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds to help them become better individuals one day.”
Dr Barmes concluded, “We also educated parents about child development and delays. We paid special attention to our physically and intellectually disabled children. It was essential that the red flags of child abuse were identified so parents and children know what to do and who to call.”
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