Stop child abuse
By Contributor
April 7, 2014, is Child Abuse Prevention Day in B.C., a time to recognize that everyone has a responsibility to keep kids safe and healthy.
Child abuse is one of the most serious problems facing society. Each year, the Ministry of Children and Family Development receives approximately 30,000 calls from concerned citizens that a child or youth might be in need of protection.
“We all have a vital role to play in keeping kids safe and healthy. If you think a child is being harmed, calling the Helpline for Children can make a world of difference,” said Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development.
“Together, we can work to stop child abuse before it happens, ensuring that children have the strongest start possible to thrive and succeed.”
It’s important that everyone – caregivers, teachers, service providers and community members – recognize the signs that a child might be at risk of harm, and know where, and how, to get help. The public also has a legal responsibility to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
So what should you do if you think a child is being abused or neglected?
B.C. residents can call the 24-hour Helpline for Children toll-free at 310-1234 – no area code is required. The helpline is also a great resource for children in crisis who don’t know where to turn.
Anyone can call – children or teenagers who need help, parents in crisis who are afraid they might hurt their children, or someone who knows or suspects a child is being abused or neglected – and you can call anonymously if you prefer.
A 16-page handbook, Responding to Child Welfare Concerns: Your Role in Knowing When and What to Report, has been produced to help the public learn the warning signs and what to do when a child may be at risk.
