Childline Gauteng based in Parktown launches peace campaign to end violence

Violence against children remains one of the most critical challenges facing South Africa.

According to Childline Gauteng in Parktown’s data, the year 2020 saw a 54% increase in cases on its helpline, with Covid-19 cases dominating, followed by family problems, abuse cases, poverty, neglect and children with behavioural problems and substance abuse.

Against this backdrop, Childline announced on October 17 that it has embarked on a campaign inviting people to call their 24/7 helpline to talk through their painful experiences and find their inner peace.

Childline hopes this will spark collective engagements about structural reforms required to achieve a peaceful society where children are protected from violence and given a chance to succeed and thrive.

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The campaign dubbed, Peace Is Calling, is being rolled out in eight communities across the province where families are highly fractured.

“Through our Peace is Calling campaign, we will offer peacebuilding engagements in communities affected by violence and promote peace and an end to all forms of crime and violence in the interest of children. Childline is available to assist through its centres and its help line available 24/7, toll-free by calling 116,” said Childline Gauteng director Lynne Cawood.

As part of the campaign, Childline Gauteng has also created a unique whistle-for-peace tune that would serve as a call to safety for children when there is unrest in their communities.

“Historically used to pass around top-secret messages, we are using the tune to pass around a not-so-secret message of our own. This will be South Africa’s way of calling for peace and unity,” said Cawood.

Through the campaign, Childline Gauteng also seeks to encourage community members to take a stand against violence in their communities and create a peaceful environment where children can realise their dreams and succeed.

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“It is also much easier to build strong children than to repair broken adults. With peace in communities, children can thrive and have a positive future, but the onus is on us all to create a peaceful environment.”

Through the Peace is Calling campaign, Childline Gauteng is also promoting a child and human rights culture, emphasizing that positive values such as honesty, compassion, and standing up for what is right are important if we are to succeed.

Details: Childline Gauteng www.childlinegauteng.co.za