Turks and Caicos, April 29, 2017 – Providenciales – According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation & Communication’s Department of Social Development, child abuse is a worldwide epidemic with most cases being under-reported. As such, in light of National Child Abuse Prevention Month this year, the Department has embarked on a public awareness campaign to ensure citizens can recognize signs of abuse and are familiar with reporting procedures. The Department has partnered with the Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Unit of the Royal TCI Police Force to continue investigations related to sexual abuse against children under the Juvenile Ordinance. The public is reminded of the offences under this ordinance for which they can be arrested and charged including:
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Attempt to commit rape and indecent assault
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Buggery
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Kidnapping
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Cruel to Juvenile
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Unlawful carnal knowledge
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Incest
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Indecent assault
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Indecent assault on a Male
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Indecent exposure
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Procuration
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Rape
In the TCI, there are five groups of children that are most at-risk for child abuse. These groups are: children in single-parent homes, children in homes with unemployed or under-employed parents, children with disabilities, adolescents, and non-English speakers. The types of abuse they can suffer are not only physical but also verbal, psychological and emotional. Other forms of abuse are neglect and abandonment.
The Department advises that five ways you can help prevent child abuse in the TCI are:
1. Know the signs of child abuse
2. Always stop to cool down before disciplining a child
3. Set positive examples; never use violence or put downs
4. Reach out to a parent who seems overwhelmed
5. Be there for children: listen and empathize
