THE need for temporary safe care placement for children affected by abuse or neglect is much in demand.
According to Richards Bay Family Care (RBFC) Manager Lebogang Maribe, many community members assisting with placements can no longer accept more children.
Currently children from central Richards Bay have to be placed with families in outlining areas because there are no suitable placements nearby.
‘We appeal to the community for support and encourage parents to enlist as temporary safe care parents.
‘Those children placed with families in other areas incur additional costs for transportation to attend school.
‘With all placements, the best interest of the child is always the focus and all candidates must undergo police clearance, a screening criteria and assessment process to qualify and to ensure a suitable environment for the children.
‘There are many children living in abusive and neglected environments. Many parents are finding it difficult to cope due to economic pressure.
‘We ensure that families undergo programmes to help parents adjust, take care of their children and offer them a support system,’ Maribe said.
The organisation relies on donations and sponsorship to assist families with food parcels and transport costs to ensure the child’s schooling is uninterrupted while the process continues.
Contact Richards Bay Family Care on 035 789 2640.
