Every May, South Africa observes Child Protection Month, a national campaign aimed at raising awareness about children’s rights and the urgent need to protect them from harm. While the campaign shines a spotlight on children’s safety for one month, the reality is that child protection is a 365-day responsibility.
The 2026 Child Protection Month theme is “Working together in ending violence against children.”
This theme highlights an important truth: protecting children cannot be left to Government alone. It requires parents, schools, communities, social workers, law enforcement, and civil society to act together.
The Reality: What the Latest Statistics Show
The statistics around child abuse in South Africa are deeply concerning and highlight why campaigns like this are so important.
- 8,984 cases of child abuse were recorded in the first three quarters of the 2025/26 financial year, including 3,258 cases of sexual abuse
- Since January 2025 alone, more than 26,000 cases of abuse and neglect have been recorded, including thousands of sexual abuse and neglect cases
As shocking as these figures are, they likely represent only a portion of the true problem, as child abuse often goes unreported.
The Link to Childhood Trauma
Behind every statistic is a child whose life has been altered, often permanently.
Childhood trauma, particularly from abuse or neglect, can have long-term psychological, emotional, and physical effects, including:
- Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress
- Difficulty forming healthy relationships
- Poor academic performance
- Increased risk of substance abuse
- Long-term physical health complications
South African data highlights how deeply rooted this issue is. For example, exposure to violence in the home remains a significant contributor to trauma, with a large percentage of children experiencing some form of abuse during childhood.
In addition, newer risks, such as online exploitation, where around 9% of children report being solicited for sexual content, show how trauma is evolving in the digital age.
Child Protection Month is therefore not just about preventing abuse; it’s about interrupting cycles of trauma that can carry on into adulthood and across generations.
Where to Get Help in South Africa
If you or someone you know needs help, there are several trusted organisations and helplines available:
Emergency & National Support
- SAPS Emergency: 10111
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
- GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428
- Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
Social & Community Support
- Department of Social Development local offices
- Thuthuzela Care Centres (for victims of sexual violence)
- NGOs such as Child Welfare South Africa and Save the Children SA
These services provide counselling, reporting assistance, legal support, and safe spaces for victims and their families.
Child Protection Month is not just symbolic; it’s a call to action. Every South African can play a role in protecting children from abuse and harm:
- Report suspected abuse
- Educate children about their rights and safety
- Support vulnerable families and communities
- Advocate for stronger child protection systems
Protecting children is not optional; it is a shared national responsibility.
If you or your organisation want to learn more about childhood trauma, including its causes and effects, as well as practical guidance on how to help children recover and thrive, contact HealingLeaves today for more information about our H.E.L.P. – Helping Kids Cope training.