Child Welfare Soc

Child Welfare SA Emalahleni is one of South Africa's oldest child protection organisations, having served the Witbank (now Emalahleni) community continuously since 1937. Affiliated to the national Child Welfare South Africa body — the oldest and largest child protection network in the country — they are the only registered, designated child protection organisation in Emalahleni with the legal authority to investigate and act when children are at risk. Their mission is to render quality developmental social work services to families with children under 18 who are in need of care and protection.

This organisation is relevant to you if you are a parent, caregiver, or community member in Emalahleni who is concerned about a child's safety — or if you are a survivor whose children have been affected by violence or abuse.

What They Offer Survivors and Families

Statutory Child Protection Child Welfare Emalahleni investigates cases of child abuse and neglect, takes legal steps under the Children's Act when children are at risk, facilitates emergency placements, and applies to the Children's Court to ensure children's safety. This is their core mandate and legal authority.

Foster Care and Safe Placements When children cannot remain safely at home, Child Welfare Emalahleni places them with vetted foster families and supports those families throughout the placement. They actively recruit and train foster parents in the community.

Asibavikele Community Programme A national programme for HIV/AIDS-affected children, with 10 trained volunteers conducting door-to-door home visits to check on children's wellbeing, identify abuse, and connect families to support. This programme has dramatically increased child protection referrals in the community and has brought psychological support and social work counselling directly to children and parents in their homes.

Aftercare Programme An aftercare programme at Extension 2, Hlalanikahle, supports approximately 60 children with school homework assistance from 2pm to 4:30pm, Monday to Thursday — providing a safe, structured space outside school hours.

School and Community Awareness Child welfare workers visit schools and communities to educate children and parents about children's rights, recognising abuse, trafficking, and HIV/AIDS. Children who understand their rights are better positioned to protect themselves and speak up if something happens.

Holiday Programmes Structured holiday programmes keep children engaged, safe, and learning during school holidays — combining educational content, sports, and guest speakers from relevant organisations and government departments.

Psychological and Counselling Support Social workers provide emotional support and counselling to children and parents identified as needing psychosocial intervention — including children who have been abused, traumatised, or are dealing with HIV/AIDS in the family.

To report child abuse or access child welfare services in Emalahleni: 013 656 2471 or witbank.childwelfare@telkomsa.net.