Child Protection Investigator & Community Advocate

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Ongoing training in child protection

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Child Protection Officer based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on investigating child abuse, safeguarding vulnerable children, and coordinating with SAPS and social services to ensure safety and welfare.

The ideal candidate holds a relevant degree (Social Work/Psychology), SACSSP registration, and at least four years in child protection with strong investigative and reporting skills.

Qualifications

• A relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field is essential.
• Registered with SACSSP or equivalent professional body.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in child protection, child welfare, or related field with investigations.
• Thorough knowledge of child protection laws and procedures in South Africa.
• Excellent investigative, interviewing, and report-writing skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with diverse individuals.

Responsibilities

• Receive, assess, and investigate reports of child abuse, neglect, and endangerment.
• Conduct home visits and interviews with children, families, and other parties in Richards Bay.
• Develop and implement safety plans to protect at-risk children.
• Provide crisis intervention and emotional support to children and families.
• Collaborate with SAPS, social services, schools, and healthcare providers.
• Prepare detailed case notes, reports, and, if required, court testimonies.
• Advocate for children's rights within legal and social service systems.
• Participate in case conferences and multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Maintain knowledge of child protection laws, policies, and best practices.
• Ensure confidentiality and security of case information.

Skills

Investigative skills

Interviewing skills

Report writing

Interpersonal communication

Ethics and safeguarding

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work

Psychology degree

Job description

Placements24 invites applications for a Child Protection Officer based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on investigating child abuse, safeguarding vulnerable children, and coordinating with SAPS and social services to ensure safety and welfare.

The ideal candidate holds a relevant degree (Social Work/Psychology), SACSSP registration, and at least four years in child protection with strong investigative and reporting skills.