Shivan's suicide: Verulam Child Welfare removes three siblings from parents' care

SYSTEM FAILURES

- YOSHINI PERUMAL

FOLLOWING the suicide of 12-year-old Shivan Cumberlege three weeks ago, his three siblings have been removed from their parents' custody, and are receiving counselling.

Shivan allegedly hanged himself with his mother's sari in front of his 4-year-old brother, at his Riet River home.

Last week, Shivan's brother, and two sisters - one aged 2 years and the other, 4 months - were removed from the care of their parents.

Mala Pather, a social work supervisor at the Verulam Child Welfare, said Shivan's siblings were receiving counselling.

"Shivan's three siblings were removed from their parents' custody and placed in temporary care. This was done through the courts. The action was a direct instruction from the KZN Department of Social Development (DSD)," Pather confirmed.

She urged communities and teachers to be on the lookout for signs of depression among children, and for them to question those who appeared withdrawn, so that they could get early intervention.

"People need to be vigilant of children who are isolating themselves, talking about death and dying, those looking depressed, and those not attending school.

"Signs can also be found when children do not sleep or eat well. This can be reported to the nearest child protection agency, or to teachers at school, who will get social workers to help the child," Pather added.

Following Shivan's death, an increase in suicides among young children and teens has been noted, and linked to overwhelming emotional pressure, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and trauma.