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Children's Act, 2005 (Act No. 38 of 2005)

Chapter 1 : Interpretation, Objects, Application and Implementation of Act

2. Objects of Act

 

The objects of this Act are—

(a) to promote the preservation and strengthening of families;
(b) to give effect to the following constitutional rights of children, namely—
(i) family care or parental care or appropriate alternative care when removed from the family environment;
(ii) social services;
(iii) protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation; and
(iv) that the best interests of a child are of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child;
(c) to give effect to the Republic’s obligations concerning the well-being of children in terms of international instruments binding on the Republic;
(d) to make provision for structures, services and means for promoting and monitoring the sound physical, psychological, intellectual, emotional and social development of children;
(e) to strengthen and develop community structures which can assist in providing care and protection for children;
(f) to protect children from discrimination, exploitation and any other physical, emotional or moral harm or hazards;
(g) to provide care and protection to children who are in need of care and protection;
(h) to recognise the special needs that children with disabilities may have; and
(i) generally, to promote the protection, development and well-being of children.