This is according to Child Welfare Bloemfontein & Childline Free State’s Marietha Johnson. Johnson says they are receiving an increasing number of child negligence cases. She says in most cases once they get more involved with the family of the neglected child, they would then realise that this problem is in fact coupled with child abuse and poverty within families.

Johnson appeals to the public to report any cases of negligence against children.

She adds that the child grants received from Sassa are not enough for parents to take care of children, however, says this does not justify any form of child negligence.

Johnson advises unemployed parents to use this money sparingly. “Parents need to look into how they can best use this funding in the development of their children.”

She also appeals to those who are privileged with basic necessities to help neighbours and their broader community where possible.

Johnson further explains that negligence can have four different legs. “The first one is malnourished, this is when children don’t have enough food nor eat proper food. The second one can be lack of clothing or dressing. The third one can be emotional neglect; this is when children do not get enough attention, including children in child-headed families. The fourth one can be educational neglect where parents do not look after children to ensure that they go to school properly.”

She adds that Childline Free State is currently assisting more than 17 000 children, of whom approximately 600 have been reported to have been neglected.

Johnson appeals to the public to help out with food parcels, clothing or any other donations.

Child Welfare Bloemfontein & Childline Free State can be contacted through the national toll-free number on 08 000 55 555 or directly on 051 430 3311.

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