'Where there's gender-based violence, there's a high risk of child abuse'

She felt trapped and financially dependent on her husband of 10 years, a prominent businessman. It took the sexual abuse of her child to give her the courage to leave.

The mother found out that her seven year-old had been sexually abused when the child suffered genital pains.

Teddy Bear Clinic director Shaheda Omar said the NGO had taken on 350 child abuses cases since March 26.

"Where there is gender-based violence, there is a high risk of child abuse," said Omar.

In a case from Johannesburg's west rand, the biggest fear of a 13-year-old raped by her stepfather was that he would be freed on bail and come after her.

Omar said some victims feared men in masks. "The very measures meant to protect us during this time are worrisome for victims."

Childline SA said calls for help had increased by 12% between April and May. Child rights and protection expert Joan van Niekerk said the number of child abuse cases during lockdown was concerning.

"If children are going to report abuse, they most frequently report it to a teacher at school, and they don't have that option at the moment," she said.

Social worker Kayla Horne, from the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children in Cape Town, said child abuse cases had increased during lockdown.

Lucy Jamieson of the Children's Institute said gender-based violence and child abuse often existed under the same roof.