Current social work procedures with children who are victims of sexual abuse in the Limpopo Province

Abstract

Child sexual abuse is a global problem that occurs across cultures and socio-economic groupings with profound long term physical and mental health consequences. This study focuses on exploring and describing current social work procedures with children who are alleged victims of sexual abuse. The qualitative research approach was utilised to explore the procedures followed by social workers regarding children who are victims of sexual abuse. A semi-structured interview schedule was used as a means of data collection to explore the aim of the study. I interviewed 23 participants until data saturation was achieved. The interview schedule focused on current processes, steps, obstacles, assistance and management of child sexual abuse cases were followed. The interview schedule was administered to social workers who are employed at the Department of Social Development, Limpopo Province. The study confirmed that care and protection of children is one of the top priorities of the government as it is also reflected in the Children’s Act, Act 38 of 2005 (South Africa, 2003) and other policy documents as well as frameworks that guide service delivery. It is recommended that social workers complete a thorough investigation and take extra caution in the procedure that is followed when a child is removed and placed into a children’s home or foster care.