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Submission information
Submission Number: 144
Submission ID: 1004
Submission UUID: 63b1fe8b-9ab9-45cf-b18c-ec436eba1e1d
Submission URI: /2025/abstracts
Created: Mon, 05/19/2025 - 15:04
Completed: Mon, 05/19/2025 - 15:11
Changed: Thu, 06/05/2025 - 08:47
Remote IP address: 102.223.56.81
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English
Is draft: No
Current page: Complete
Webform: Abstract
Presenters
Dr.
Nqaphi
Sivuyile
University of fort hare
This book explores the development of an innovative strategy to address delays in child sexual abuse (CSA) investigations in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Rooted in forensic social work and intersectoral collaboration, the strategy emphasizes early intervention, streamlined case management, and culturally sensitive practices. It identifies systemic gaps, including poor coordination among stakeholders, lack of resources, and inadequate training. By proposing a model that integrates social work, policing, and community engagement, the book aims to improve the speed and quality of CSA investigations. It serves as a practical guide for professionals working to protect vulnerable children and uphold justice.
No
Abstract
Development of an Innovative Strategy to address child sexual abuse investigation delays in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SUB 2.3 Work with special and vulnerable populations (children, families, women, older persons, LGBTQIA+ etc).
Oral Presentation
This research aimed to establish an approach for examining child sexual abuse (CSA) cases in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, specifically identifying causes of investigation delays. The study also analyzed disputes among CSA stakeholders and their roles, using the ecosystem theory as a framework.
A qualitative case study design within an intervention research paradigm was employed. Purposive sampling recruited 68 experts in CSA investigations, including law enforcement, social workers, legal professionals, and healthcare specialists. Participants comprised 30 from SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Units; 14 from government stakeholders; 4 from NGOs; 3 private social workers/psychologists; and 17 from focus groups. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, followed by thematic analysis.
Key findings revealed concerns over a shortage of social workers for victim forensic assessments, issues with DNA collection, and a lack of crime kits. While the NPA and SAPS possess investigative aids, they are deficient and poorly maintained, hindering investigations. Participants cited a widespread scarcity of human and physical resources, including insufficient personnel and vehicles. Protracted DNA forensic results were a major obstacle, despite their critical importance. Inadequate directives, policies, or protocols, and poor collaboration among stakeholders, further complicated service provision for child victims.
The study concludes that a combination of resource deficiencies and lack of coordination impedes effective CSA case resolution. It proposes a joint CSA investigation model and recommends a pilot study to implement it, advocating for collective coordination among all actors in the value chain to expedite investigations.
A qualitative case study design within an intervention research paradigm was employed. Purposive sampling recruited 68 experts in CSA investigations, including law enforcement, social workers, legal professionals, and healthcare specialists. Participants comprised 30 from SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Units; 14 from government stakeholders; 4 from NGOs; 3 private social workers/psychologists; and 17 from focus groups. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, followed by thematic analysis.
Key findings revealed concerns over a shortage of social workers for victim forensic assessments, issues with DNA collection, and a lack of crime kits. While the NPA and SAPS possess investigative aids, they are deficient and poorly maintained, hindering investigations. Participants cited a widespread scarcity of human and physical resources, including insufficient personnel and vehicles. Protracted DNA forensic results were a major obstacle, despite their critical importance. Inadequate directives, policies, or protocols, and poor collaboration among stakeholders, further complicated service provision for child victims.
The study concludes that a combination of resource deficiencies and lack of coordination impedes effective CSA case resolution. It proposes a joint CSA investigation model and recommends a pilot study to implement it, advocating for collective coordination among all actors in the value chain to expedite investigations.
Reviewer ONE Feedback
Mr
Luvuyo
Teko
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted
Reviewer TWO Feedback
Dr
Luce
Pretorius
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted