| Everyone, especially those who have responsibility for children, needs to be aware of child abuse, the types of child abuse, the possible signs of child abuse and child abuse reporting guidelines. |
The Ministry of Social Development following on from the Keeping Children Safe Training Workshop held, in March 2011, engaged with Day Care Providers on Anguilla. An awareness session on Child Abuse, Child Abuse Reporting, and Safeguarding in general was held at the Teachers’ Resource Centre Auditorium on Saturday October 1st, 2011, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The session was facilitated by Kiesha Gumbs-Bibby, Social Development Planner. This was the second session in a series where civil society organizations will be invited to participate. Child abuse was defined, in accordance with the World Health Organization, as “all forms of physical and/or emotional ill treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation resulting in actual or potential harm to the child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust, or power.” Handouts on the possible signs of child abuse, and tips on developing a child protection policy within their respective organizations were shared with the Day Care Providers. The broad issue of Safeguarding was also highlighted, including basic safeguarding measures that Day Care Providers can utilize, if they are not already doing so, and other ways that they can make their organization safer – for example, insisting on safe recruitment practices when hiring new staff. Information on their roles in recognizing, responding to, and reporting child abuse as persons who come into contact with children on a regular basis was covered and there was opportunity for discussion. By the end of the session the Day Care Providers were sensitized to child abuse as a cross-cutting issue that affects all facets of society. Mrs. Gumbs-Bibby also took that opportunity to share the benefits of early stimulation for learning in children age 0 – 3. Early stimulation programming incorporates activities that involve storytelling, singing and music, puppetry, and floor play. Early stimulation wires infants’ and toddlers’ brains for positive growth experiences which translate into better grades at all level of education, professional advancement, increased earning capacity and overall well rounded and adjusted individuals. This will be of equivalent benefit to society as a whole – a productive population will have social and economic benefits. A very special thank you is extended to the Day Care Providers for their invaluable service; to Ms. Laverne Hughes, Ministry of Social Development; Mr. Iain Bibby, Department of Education; Mrs. Daphne Hodge, Department of Social Development; and Mr. Oliver Hodge, Department of Health Protection, for their contributions to the success of this Safeguarding Children Awareness Session. |
