Resources for Children & Youth

During the lockdown, many individuals and particularly women and children, may be at increased risk of sexual violence, domestic violence and inter-personal violence. If someone is worried about a dangerous home situation for themselves, a family member or community member there are free helplines (also called hotlines) available:

Childline South Africa

This non-profit organisation assists children and their families, or adults with concerns about children. Through their Helpline, counsellors assist with matters related to physical and sexual abuse, bullying, substance abuse, behavioural problems and human trafficking, or general advice for children.

  • Toll-free helpline: ? 116 (Available 24 hours, 7 days a week, and free from all networks)
  • Website: www.childlinesa.org.za

Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA)

CWSA focuses on child protection, child care and family development. Neglect and child abuse can also be reported.

TEARS Foundation

TEARS Foundation provides access to crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling and prevention education services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and child sexual abuse. Free confidential services are provided to all victims.

Crime Stop: ? 08600 10 111

Department of Social Development: ? 0800 055 555

24-hour Call Centre : Support and Counselling to Victims of Gender-based Violence:

Toll-free number to speak to a social worker for assistance and counselling: ? 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV).

Callers can also request a social worker from the Command Centre to contact them by dialing ?*120*7867# (free) from any cell phone

Domestic Violence, Gender Based Violence and Child Abuse
During the lockdown, many individuals and particularly women and children, may be at increased risk of sexual violence, domestic violence and inter-personal violence. If someone is worried about a dangerous home situation for themselves, a family member or community member there are free helplines (also called hotlines) available:

Domestic Violence Command Centre – Call: ? 080 042 8428 OR SMS: 32312 OR dial *120*7867#
Women Abuse – Call: ? 0800 150 150
Substance Abuse Helpline – Call: ? 0800 12 13 14

Teddy Bear Foundation

The Teddy Bear Foundation is a Medico-legal Clinic is a specialised medical facility for children who have been abused or neglected and a training service for medical professionals working in the child protection field. It is based within the Charlotte Maxexe Academic Hospital, and is run by a multi-disciplinary team of Paediatricians, Doctors, Forensic nurses, Social Workers and volunteers.

Their victim support services include:

  • Medico-legal Examinations
  • Forensic Assessments
  • Psychological Assessments
  • Therapeutic Counseling and Support
  • Court Preparation and Support

 Teddy Bear Clinic ? 011 484 4554 ( Office hours only)

You can report child protection concerns to UNHCR through the Refugee Helpline at ? 0800 100 030.

OR Contact one of our UNHCR’s partners listed in the Legal & Social Assistance section.

Related information

Additional Resources:

  • Lawyers for Human Rights: A Guide to working with Vulnerable Children
  • For information on birth certificates and guardianship or custody applications please visit the Documentation section.
  • Download the RedSafe app from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or visit the web app for trusted and reliable information on this topic.