24/12/2025
NEGLECTED CHILDREN DISCOVERED DURING CLINIC OUTREACH
HUHUDI - A routine outreach programme by Outreach Team Leaders and Community Health Care Workers (CHWs) from Huhudi Health Care Centre has once again exposed the harsh realities faced by vulnerable children, after four neglected children under the age of 13 were discovered living in unsafe and unhealthy conditions.
The discovery was made while they were following up on patients who had defaulted on their chronic medication. Concern arose when the children’s mother had not collected her medication for an extended period, prompting a home visit.
On arrival, they found a 13-year-old boy showing symptoms consistent with scabies. The child had dropped out of school and appeared to be in poor health and hygiene. The remaining children were also found to be in distressing conditions.
Although they were still attending school, they had no proper school uniforms or shoes, raising serious concerns about their well-being and care.
The children were found living with two adult relatives who are reported to be using illicit substances. Their parents have abandoned them and are currently residing elsewhere, leaving the children without adequate parental care or supervision.
A Multi-functional Team, consisting of doctors, professional nurses, and social workers, immediately conducted a full assessment of the household. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the team intervened without delay to safeguard the children.
Attempts were made to place the children with extended family members, but these efforts were unsuccessful after relatives declined to take responsibility. The situation was stabilised when neighbours voluntarily agreed to temporarily accommodate the children, ensuring they were placed in a safer and more supportive environment.
In an act that underscores the commitment of healthcare professionals beyond their clinical duties, one member of the Multi-functional Team, Dr Iren, has taken responsibility for supporting the 13-year-old boy. The child has since committed to returning to school, offering a sign of hope amid difficult circumstances.
On Tuesday, the Multi-functional Team delivered food parcels to the Oliphant family, who have opened their home to the children. Social workers continue to monitor the situation as longer-term solutions are explored in line with child protection laws.
Health officials have used this case to call on the broader community to play an active role in protecting vulnerable children. Community members are encouraged to report cases of neglect and, where possible, to assist by providing care, supervision, or support to children in need.
