In a continued effort to intensify advocacy for the protection of children and their rights, Engo Free State, together with Free State Care in Action, held a Child Protection Walk in Bloemfontein.
Tying in with Child Protection Month, this event on Friday, 31 May, was held at Inibos, Langenhovenpark.
Alda Fourie, provincial head of marketing at Engo, a non-profit welfare organisation, says several awareness actions were launched in the province as part of the month-long campaign that raises awareness about the rights of children as enshrined in the South Africa Constitution.
“Several talks and actions were initiated during the month to make children and the public aware of children’s rights,” confirms Fourie.
“Child protection is everyone’s business.
“We are passionate about children, and therefore we believe that no child should ever be neglected or be for sale; and there is no excuse for child abuse.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and making the world safer should be a way of life.
“It should not hurt to be a child.”
According to Fourie, awareness drives are fundamental in educating children to break the silence in cases of abuse.
“Most children are threatened by the abuser not to tell or speak about incidents. Those who do tell an adult are often scolded and not believed. That’s how they keep the secret.
“False reports are very rare – as many as 96% are valid. Children do not have the cognitive ability to make up stories of abuse that are not real.
“So, the best thing you can say to a child is: ‘I believe you,’ ” says Fourie.
Fourie explains that children are victimised because of their vulnerability, which is often exacerbated by a lack of protection.
“According to research more than 95% of perpetrators are known, trusted and often related to victims.
“Children are often abused by one or both parents.
“Other perpetrators known to the victim can include family friends, daycare providers, foster parents and teachers.
“Children are not only abused by strangers. Perpetrators often form relationships with the victim and the family before abuse. Characteristic behaviour can include special attention, outings and gifts.”
How to protect a child
- Know the signs, be vigilant. It is everyone’s job to keep children safe.
- Talk to your child about body safety and create safety rules.
- Get to know your child and notice changes in behaviour.
- Have an open relationship with your child and create a space where they feel safe to talk about difficult things.
- Always listen to your child and believe them.
