The Minister of Social Development, Ms Bathabile Dlamini, has raised concern about the reported neglect of a disabled eight year old Alexandra child whom, it is alleged, was kept locked up in a shack with no ventilation and without water or food. "The reported neglect of the disabled child in the manner that has been described is concerning to us. This incident once again brings under scrutiny the ability of South African parents to take care of their disabled children," said Minister Dlamini.
"Government renders services to assist parents who feel they are incapable of providing the necessary care for their children, including placing them in alternative care in places of safety or foster care.
However, over and above this, it is evident that we need to do more to educate and support parents with disabled children. This is why the Department of Social Development has dedicated 2014 to issues of persons and children with disabilities," added Minister Dlamini.
The Department of Social Development will launch Child Protection Week on June 1 to raise awareness of issues around the protection of children, especially children with disabilities. The week long campaign will be held under the theme "Working Together to Protect Children" - a call to all South Africans to play a part in protecting and ensuring the well-being of children.
"We applaud the community of Alexandra for alerting the authorities to the situation of the child. This is the type of action required from all South Africans to protect our children. This is our shared responsibility that cannot be delegated. All of us must work together for the sake of our children," concluded Minister Dlamini.
Media enquiries:
Lumka Oliphant
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E-mail: lumkao@dsd.gov.za
