If you suspect that there was/is abuse or deliberate neglect, it must be reported to one of three authorities: a designated child protection organisation like Badisa Tygerberg, the provincial Department of Social Development or a Police Official via affidavit.
The compulsory reporting obligation applies only to sexual abuse, physical abuse causing injury, and deliberate neglect. However, there are many other circumstances that may leave a child in need of care and protection. In these cases anyone can make a voluntary report.
According to section 150 of the children’s act the following circumstances describe children in need of care and protection. A child who:
If you find a child in any of these circumstances you can submit an affidavit to report it to a designated child protection organisation or official.
STEP ONE:
Download and complete Form 22 if you are a professional (e.g. teacher, doctors, etc.)
OR
A community member must submit an affidavit describing the circumstances of a child at risk in need of immediate care and protection. The reporter is entitled to anonymity and should request it specifically in writing from the designated social worker. The children’s act provides protection of prosecution when any person acts in the perceived best interest of a child.
STEP TWO:
Email your completed form or affidavit to Badisa Tygerberg and a social worker will be assigned to do an investigation into the circumstances of the case.
BADISA Tygerberg is only registered to deliver child protection services in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. This includes: Parow, Parow Valley, Ravensmead, Uitsig, Eureka, Cravenby and Connaught.
If you need to report a case outside of these boundaries please submit your form to your local Child Protection Organisation, Police Official or Social Services Office.