Childline KZN urges stronger partnerships to help abuse survivors speak out
Childline KwaZulu-Natal has called for closer co-operation between therapists, police, prosecutors and advocacy groups to help children report abuse and access holistic support.
Childline KwaZulu-Natal has marked its 40th anniversary, focusing on the intersection between community support and the criminal justice system to safeguard children. The organization's 24/7 Crisis Helpline handled nearly 40,000 calls annually, addressing abuse, neglect, poverty, substance abuse, and school problems. The Siyakhanyisa Prevention & Outreach program reached 58,389 children, parents, caregivers, and community members.
Advocate Omashani Naidoo, acting deputy director of Public Prosecutions: Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit, National Prosecuting Authority, emphasized that children often refrain from reporting abuse due to fear, private matters, pinky promises, grooming, and self-doubt. Childline plays a crucial role in creating a safe environment for children to speak out, offering therapeutic interventions, and collaborating with other stakeholders.
The organization's past year was challenging due to rising service demands and limited resources, but they received support from donors, partners, and the Comrades Marathon Association.
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