Child Protection Officer

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

About the Role

Our client is a dedicated organization committed to safeguarding the well-being of children within the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal community. We are looking for a diligent and compassionate Child Protection Officer to join our team. This critical role involves investigating child abuse and neglect allegations, providing support to vulnerable children and their families, and working collaboratively with relevant authorities to ensure children's safety and welfare. The ideal candidate will possess strong investigative skills, empathy, and a commitment to upholding children's rights in a practical, on-the-ground capacity.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive, assess, and investigate reports of child abuse, neglect, and endangerment.
• Conduct home visits and interviews with children, families, and other relevant parties in the Richards Bay area.
• Develop and implement safety plans and intervention strategies to protect children at risk.
• Provide crisis intervention and emotional support to children and families experiencing trauma.
• Collaborate closely with SAPS, social services, schools, and healthcare providers to ensure coordinated child protection efforts.
• Prepare detailed case notes, reports, and court testimonies as required.
• Provide advocacy for children's rights and needs within legal and social service systems.
• Participate in case conferences and multi-disciplinary team meetings.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of child protection legislation, policies, and best practices.
• Ensure the confidentiality and security of all case information.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field is essential.
• Registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) or equivalent professional body.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in child protection, child welfare, or a related field, with demonstrable experience in 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 the ability to engage effectively with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage complex cases, and make sound judgments in critical situations.
• A valid driver's license and reliable access to a vehicle for travel within Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal and surrounding areas.
• Commitment to child safeguarding principles and ethical practice.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This role provides the opportunity to work within a supportive team environment and make a direct, positive impact on the lives of children in Richards Bay.
• Professional development opportunities and ongoing training in child protection are provided.
• This position requires a dedicated individual to be present in the community, ensuring the safety and well-being of its youngest residents.