To mark Child Protection Week, Khula Development Group together with Stellcare, Community Keepers and the Breugel Community Centre staff gathered to spread an anti-bullying message last Wednesday (1 June).
“In group sessions, participants discussed what bullying is, especially different types of bullying, recognisable signs of a child being bullied, what to do when a child is being bullied and what to do when one’s child is the bully,” said Bianca Petersen, communications manager of Khula Development Group.
“The message was clear: #BuddiesNotBullies.”
Sergeant Christopher van der Merwe of Cloetesville police explained the procedure to follow when it is found a child is being bullied or bullying is suspected.
“Speak to a social worker, teacher or school principal first,” he said.
“It is also imperative that we all speak from one tongue and heart, which means the children hear the same message expressed by all stakeholders.”
Van der Merwe urged communities, police officers, designated child protection organisations, schools and other organisations that have an interest in the well-bring of children to gather and come up with workable solutions that can be carried out to this end, for safety of children.
At the end of the day, the participants enjoyed a cup of warm soup and were sent off with a prayer of protection and encouragement.
The programme continued throughout National Child Protection Week, an annual awareness initiative observed countrywide from Sunday 29 May to Sunday 5 June.
