Speak up to keep our children safe

local social worker or a police official, as mandated by Section 110 of the Children’s Act (Act No 38 of 2005). This will ensure that, if warranted, the details of vulnerable children are recorded in Part A of the Child Protection Register and receive the help they need.

The Act further states that

the Department of Social Development must assess and further manage the situation in the best interests of the child.

In the case of an abandoned child, a social worker must gather all necessary information and affidavit/s from the person/s who found or reported the child as abandoned and report the case to the police for investigation.

The department explains that matters relating to child and spousal maintenance proceedings; child abuse, neglect and exploitation – including child abandonment; foster care applications and hearings; international child abduction cases and adoptions and hearings are prioritised.

What to do if you cannot care for your baby

A pregnant mother who wants to discuss the possibility of putting her baby up for adoption should contact their area social worker or the nearest Department of Social Development office.

Despite adoption services being readily available, the abandonment of infants in South Africa is unfortunately a common occurrence. It is for this reason that organisations such as Door of Hope Children’s Mission in Johannesburg, Shepherd’s Keep in Durban and Ubuntu House in Cape Town exist. They offer a safe drop-off point for unwanted babies.

NON-GOVERNMENTAL