B.V.I. Tuesday, April 28 – Government’s effort to promote community partnership in reducing incidents of child abuse and neglect received a boost last weekend, when several community members pledged to support the Social Development Department’s initiatives to achieve that goal.
Their pledge to cooperate followed the signing of a signature mat, which indicated their commitment to protect the Territory’s children from harm and neglect. The action came after last Saturday’s annual Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month Run/Walk.
Social Worker III and Family and Children Service Division Supervisor Ms. Stacie T. Stoutt emphasised the Department’s desire to change people’s perception of child abuse prevention.
She also noted the need for a shift towards community activities and public policies that prioritise early prevention in order to ensure that incidents of child abuse and neglect are prevented.
"At a time when we all care about the economy, it makes ‘cents’ to spend more time learning how stable, nurturing relationships influence a child's developing brain and provide a foundation for all future development. Healthy child development starts a chain of events that follow a child into adulthood,” she said.
Saturday’s activity included the release of 52 balloons that represented the number of reported child abuse cases, which were received last year. There was also an additional balloon for the children who experience unknown incidents of abuse.
Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month is observed annually during the month of April. This year’s theme is “Strengthening Families and Communities.” The month will culminate with a Parenting Enrichment Seminar this Thursday beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Road Town Senior Citizens Centre.
British Virgin Islands News