What are the opening hours?

Monday 08:00 - 16:00 Tuesday 08:00 - 16:00 Wednesday 08:00 - 16:00 Thursday 08:00 - 16:00 Friday 08:00 - 15:00

The Teddy Bear Foundation South Africa

Home
South Africa
Johannesburg
The Teddy Bear Foundation South Africa

Where children go on their Journey to Healing🧸 TBF is closely monitored by the board of directors who are all from civil society.

The Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children now trading as Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF) originated in 1986 in response to an urgent need for medical examinations for sexually abused children. From there it has grown into a fully fledged service for abused children which includes: Forensic medical examinations, forensic assessments, counseling, psychological testing and more recently a diversion programme for youth sexual offenders. Professor Lorna Jacklin a specialist pediatrician based at the Johannesburg General Hospital the chairman of the board of directors formed part of the inception of the TBF. The financial department is audited every year by a well known and reputable auditing firm. In South Africa, child abuse is and has been an ongoing problem. As an NGO, our concern is not only to support children and families affected by abuse but also to promote: “CHILD ABUSE NO MORE”. We historically have supported the abused child through the Criminal Justice System to ensure psychological healing takes place and the child is able to fulfill their place as a valuable member in society without the scarring that may perpetuate child abuse in the future. We have done this through forensic medical examinations, supportive therapy, forensic evaluations, psychological testing and a court preparation programme for children and parents, for cases that go to court. We offer a diversion programme in partnership with the courts for young sex offenders. This programme is designed to redirect the child offender away from the criminal justice system in order to rehabilitate the child into more constructive behaviours. We hereby prevent the child from developing into an adult offender which in turn will help us achieve our aim of “Child Abuse no more”

For any clinical information:
Clinical Director- Dr Shaheda Omar
Email: shahedao@ttbc.org.za
Cell: 083 557 3720
Tel: 011 484 4554

Donations and support:
Donor Liaison Manager- Dalene Bishop
Email: daleneb@ttbc.org.za
Cell: 083 469 9196
Tel: 011 484 4554

26/01/2026

🚨 REMINDER: Only 3 WEEKS LEFT until the 2026 Court Prep Programme! 🚨

Professionals working with child victims of abuse – this is your essential 5-day intensive training to better support children through the justice system!

📅 Dates: 9 – 13 February 2026
📍 Venue: Auditorium Training Room, Children's Memorial Institute, 13 Joubert Street Ext, Parktown, Johannesburg
🕒 Daily sessions from ~09h00 to early afternoon
🎓 CPD Points awarded upon completion of the full course!

Key topics include:
- Medical assessments (Dr Efrat Barnes - Teddy Bear Clinic, Charlotte Maxeke)
- Counselling & Child Abuse
- Family assessments & special needs
- Abnormal/Normal s*xual behaviour
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Legal & FCS processes
- Role plays, breath work, Top Dogs support, and more!

Facilitated by leading experts from the field – don't miss this opportunity to build skills that make a real difference in protecting children.

Spots are limited – register or get more details ASAP via the Teddy Bear Foundation!
Visit: www.teddybearfoundation.org.za
Or check their socials: (Instagram) | The Teddy Bear Clinic (Facebook)

Tag a colleague who needs this in their professional development! 💙🧸
🛡️

23/01/2026

As we mark the week of International Day of Education, our hearts are shattered by the tragic scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark, where 14 precious young lives were lost on their way to school. The Vaal Triangle police have confirmed the minibus was overloaded carrying 18 people when certified for only 14 highlighting a devastating failure in basic safety measures. One child remains unidentified, adding even more pain to grieving families.

This heartbreaking loss reminds us that education begins with safe journeys to and from school. No child should ever have to pay the ultimate price simply for seeking knowledge.

The Teddy Bear Foundation extends our deepest condolences to the families, friends, teachers, and entire communities mourning these beautiful souls. We stand with you in grief and solidarity. May their memories be a light that guides us toward change.

This tragedy underscores the urgent need for increased vigilance and stricter safety standards in scholar transport: proper licensing, enforcement against overloading, regular vehicle inspections, responsible driving, and community awareness. Every stakeholder, parents, operators, authorities, and schools must prioritize child safety above all else.

Let this be a turning point. Together, we can honor these children by ensuring no more families endure such unimaginable loss.

Rest in peace, little ones. 💔🕊️🧸

23/01/2026

🌍 Tomorrow, on January 24, we celebrate International Day of Education, a reminder of education's power to foster peace, equality, and sustainable development. But education isn't just about books and classrooms; it's about creating safe spaces where every child can thrive.

In a world where vulnerabilities exist, we must prioritize keeping children safe at school. This means integrating essential lessons on safe touch, teaching kids the difference between appropriate and inappropriate contact, and body autonomy, empowering them to understand they control their own bodies, set boundaries, and say "no" without fear.

Schools should be havens of learning and protection. Let's advocate for comprehensive programs that equip children with these life skills early on, preventing harm and building confident futures. Join the conversation: How can we make this a reality in every classroom?

21/01/2026

Children deserve age-appropriate, honest information to help them stay safe and make healthy choices.

This pamphlet highlights:
✔ Safe s*xual behaviour
✔ The importance of education
✔ Preventing HIV, STIs, HPV & early pregnancy
✔ Empowering children to speak up and seek help

Together, we can protect childhood and build stronger futures.

20/01/2026

The Teddy Bear Foundation extends its deepest condolences to the Sithole family, friends, classmates, educators at Hoërskool Driehoek in Vanderbijlpark, and the entire community on the heartbreaking passing of their beloved 17-year-old son, Thomas Junior Sithole.

We stand with you in your profound grief and the outrage surrounding this tragic loss. Thomas, a promising Grade 12 matric student known for his calm nature and big dreams, went missing on Friday, 9 January 2026, during a private boat outing with friends on the Vaal River. His body was recovered by SAPS Diving Crew on Monday, 12 January 2026, after days of anguished searching.

This unimaginable tragedy has left many questions unanswered and hearts shattered. In times like these, the pain of sudden, unexplained loss can feel overwhelming, especially for young people and families navigating trauma.

At the Teddy Bear Foundation, we are committed to supporting children, youth, and communities affected by trauma, grief, and loss. We offer vital psychological support through therapeutic counseling, psychological assessments, and holistic care to help those impacted rebuild emotional resilience and feel seen again.

As Dr. Shaheda Omar, Clinical Director of the Teddy Bear Foundation and a leading expert on child trauma, has highlighted in her work: support must address how trauma fractures a child's sense of safety, trust, and worth, while focusing on restorative healing to break cycles of pain.

If the Sithole family, friends, school community, or anyone affected needs assistance during this difficult time, please reach out. We are here to help.

Contact the Teddy Bear Foundation at 011 484 4554 or visit our website at https://teddybearfoundation.org.za

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Thomas Junior Sithole's memory be a light of hope and justice prevail. Rest in peace, young one. 🕊️💔

19/01/2026

This Valentine's season, let's show love that truly heals 💖🧸

Every day, the Teddy Bear Foundation stands beside abused children and their families in South Africa, offering comfort, counselling, and a safe space where kids finally feel believed, protected, and valued.

Right now, we're rallying to raise R30,000 to continue this life-changing work:

- Providing trauma counselling to help little hearts mend
- Supporting families through the scary legal process
- Creating safe havens where children hear the words they deserve:

You are not alone. You are loved. You matter. 🧸

Your donation big or small becomes a powerful hug that lasts far beyond Valentine's Day.

Here are some heartwarming glimpses of the comfort a teddy bear and caring support can bring:

Ready to share your love in the most meaningful way?
Donate now and help us reach our R30,000 goal.

https://teddybearfoundation.org.za/donate/

Tag a friend who cares, share this post, and let's wrap these brave children in love and protection. Together we can make a real difference. ❤️🧸

28m

13/01/2026

🌟 Calling all young changemakers aged 14-17 in South Africa! 🌟

Want your voice to shape laws, policies, and the future of children's rights? Join the Child Centred Governance Academy an exciting programme empowering teen activists to:
✅ Make inputs into laws on child rights
✅ Give recommendations on government programmes & policies
✅ Comment on how government works
✅ Get involved in international child rights discussions

How? Through fun, weekly WhatsApp sessions led by South Africa's first Children's Commissioner Christina Nomdo and experienced peer mentors!

Topics covered:
- Basics of child rights
- How government really works
- Budgeting for child rights
- Advocacy & lobbying decision makers

Spots are open – but hurry!

How to apply (by 23 January 2026):
Send a short message (under 100 words) to Christina on 083 377 67067 explaining why you think children should have a say in how the world works.

What you need:
- Live in SA (preference for those outside Western Cape)
- Informed parental consent
- Your own phone + data/WiFi
- 2 hours/week for sessions
- Comfortable discussing in English

This is your chance to become a child human rights defender and make real change! 💪✨ Who's ready to step up? Tag a friend who needs to see this!

DM or WhatsApp to apply – deadline 23 Jan 2026!

13/01/2026

We've just published a heartfelt guide on our website: "Navigating Matric Results Anxiety: A Guide for Parents and Loved Ones" 🌟

In this blog, we share:
- Key signs of anxiety to watch for in your teen (emotional, behavioral, physical, and warning signs of deeper distress)
- Practical, compassionate ways to help: validating their feelings, opening up communication, encouraging healthy coping, reminding them of their worth beyond marks, and planning next steps together
- Immediate, free resources including our own Teddy Bear Foundation helpline and partners

You play a vital role in helping your youth feel seen, supported, and resilient—no matter the numbers on the page. 💙

Read the full guide here:
https://teddybearfoundation.org.za/navigating-matric-results-anxiety-a-guide-for-parents-and-loved-ones/

Remember: "You are more than your marks! You are resilient, valuable, and supported."

If you or your teen need to talk right now:
- Teddy Bear Foundation: 011 484 4554 | teddybearfoundation.org.za
- Childline: 116 (24/7 toll-free) | childlinesa.org.za
- SADAG Su***de Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567 (24/7) | sadag.org

Share this with parents who might need it, and let's keep the conversation going. Your calm presence and love can change everything. ❤️🧸

12/01/2026

Last week, our team from the Teddy Bear Foundation brought our SAFE (Safety Awareness For Everyone) program to the wonderful Little Angels Day Care Creche, where we delivered an engaging presentation on child safety and donated essential stationery to support their daily learning activities! 📚🧸

We're deeply concerned about creches like Little Angels because young children in early childhood development centers are particularly vulnerable to risks like abuse, neglect, or inadequate resources in underfunded communities. That's why our SAFE program is dedicated to empowering educators, parents, and kids with practical tools and knowledge to create safer environments, prevent harm, and foster healthy growth. Together, we're building a protective shield around our little ones, one school and creche at a time.

Join us in this vital mission!

12/01/2026

Today is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons – a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable among us.

At the Teddy Bear Foundation, we commemorate this day by recommitting ourselves to safeguarding vulnerable children and raising awareness about the devastating dangers of human trafficking. Every day, we work tirelessly to prevent abuse, provide healing support, and break the cycles that allow exploitation to thrive.

Together, we can break the chains and build a safer, brighter future for every child.

Your voice, your support, and your awareness make a real difference. Let's stand united against human trafficking – because no child should ever have to bear this burden.

Child Abuse No More! 💙🧸

Here are some powerful visual suggestions to pair with this post (you can search for similar stock images or use them as inspiration):

- A teddy bear holding or beside broken chains, symbolizing freedom and protection.
- Symbolic silhouettes of children breaking free from chains.
- Illustrations showing hope, safety, and child empowerment in the fight against trafficking.

For more information or to support our work, visit www.teddybearfoundation.org.za
Together, we heal and protect. ❤️

09/01/2026

🌟 Calling all professionals passionate about protecting children!🌟

Join us for the 2026 Court Prep Programme — an essential 5-day intensive training designed to equip you with the skills to support child victims of abuse through the justice system.

📅 Dates: 9 – 13 February 2026
📍 Venue:Auditorium Training Room, Children’s Memorial Institute
13 Joubert Street Ext, Parktown, Johannesburg
⏰ Daily sessions: Morning to early afternoon (full schedule below)

Register HERE; https://forms.gle/za1pWi2vL7YzGfEt9

Enquiries; ruthl@ttbc.org.za

This comprehensive programme covers vital topics including:
- Medical assessments
- Counselling & child abuse
- Family assessments
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Legal & FCS processes
- Court preparation modules, role play, breath work & more!

Facilitated by leading experts such as Dr Shaheda Omar, Dr Efrat Barnes, Lt Col Selepepe, and many others.

CPD points will be issued upon completion of the full five-day course — a fantastic opportunity for continuing professional development!

Whether you're a social worker, lawyer, counsellor, mental health professional, or working in child protection, this training will empower you to make a real difference in children's lives.

Don't miss out!

Together, let's build a safer future for every child. 💙🧸

💜

08/01/2026

To our incredible Matric Class of 2025! 🌟

As you await your well-deserved results (set to be released on 12 January), remember the words of inspiration from Dr. Shaheda Omar, Clinical Director of the Teddy Bear Foundation: You've worked hard, overcome challenges, and this moment is yours to shine with confidence and strength. No matter the outcome, your future is bright and full of endless possibilities! 💪✨

We're so proud of you all. Celebrate your journey, believe in yourself, and know that brighter days are ahead.

If results bring stress or you need support, reach out — you're not alone.

Address

Children's Memorial Institute
Johannesburg
2001

Opening Hours

Monday	08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 16:00
Thursday	08:00 - 16:00
Friday	08:00 - 15:00

Telephone

+27114844554

Website

https://ttbc.mobi/TBFWebsite, https://ttbc.mobi/m/TeddyBearFoundation

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Our Story

The Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children (TTBC) originated in 1986 in response to an urgent need for medical examinations for s*xually abused children. From there it has grown into a fully fledged service for abused children which includes: Forensic medical examinations, forensic assessments, counseling, psychological testing and more recently a diversion programme for youth s*xual offenders. Professor Lorna Jacklin a specialist pediatrician based at the Johannesburg General Hospital the chairman of the board of directors formed part of the inception of the TTBC. The TTBC is closely monitored by the board of directors who are all from civil society. The financial department is audited every year by a well known and reputable auditing firm. In South Africa, child abuse is and has been an ongoing problem. As an NGO, our concern is not only to support children and families affected by abuse but also to promote: “CHILD ABUSE NO MORE”. To do this we at the TTBC have a two-pronged approach. We historically have supported the abused child through the Criminal Justice System to ensure psychological healing takes place and the child is able to fulfill their place as a valuable member in society without the scarring that may perpetuate child abuse in the future. We have done this through forensic medical examinations, supportive therapy, forensic evaluations, psychological testing and a court preparation programme for children and parents, for cases that go to court. The second prong of the TTBC approach is offering a diversion programme in partnership with the courts for young s*x offenders. This programme is designed to redirect the child offender away from the criminal justice system in order to rehabilitate the child into more constructive behaviours. We hereby prevent the child from developing into an adult offender which in turn will help us achieve our aim of “Child Abuse no more”