Police take safety programmes to schools
Children were also encouraged to report bullying and learners and teachers were urged to be aware of the signs and symptoms expressed by children who are being bullied
RICHARDS Bay police have rolled out safety awareness programmes at pre-schools and primary schools across the city to educate children about staying safe and how to report crimes against children.
Richards Bay SAPS Communications Officer, Captain Debbie Ferreira, said sessions are being conducted by police officers, sharing information on the importance of memorising the SAPS emergency number 10111, stranger danger, human trafficking, bullying, abuse, personal safety and sexual assault.
‘The visits to schools have been productive as young children can interact with officers of the law, ask questions and become educated.
‘We want children to feel safe about speaking out against any forms of abuse or challenges they experience. We encourage them to report any incidents of abuse to a teacher or someone they trust,’ said Ferreira.
Children were also encouraged to report bullying and learners and teachers were urged to be aware of the signs and symptoms expressed by children who are being bullied.
‘Bullying is very difficult for children to deal with. It makes them feel afraid, degraded and often makes them feel worthless.
‘It is important to speak out, otherwise it may not stop.
‘Speak to a friend, parent, brother or sister, uncle or aunt and most importantly, if it happens at school, speak to your teacher,’ she said.
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