Prevention, intervention, are cornerstones of effective child protection; “tireless efforts of those on the frontlines” acknowledged

 

NASSAU, The Bahamas — The Government of The Bahamas is committed to continuing its child prevention and intervention efforts as they are two cornerstones of effective child protection, Acting Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon.  Zane Lightbourne said.

Mr. Lightbourne said actions undertaken in this regard include the strengthening of child protection systems, improved access to services, and support of initiatives that equip families “with the tools they need to keep their children safe and well.”

He was addressing a Social Services press conference, held April 4 at Aventura Plaza offices, to launch Child Protection Month in The Bahamas.

“Prevention means acting before harm occurs. It means building strong communities where families have access to the support they need to thrive. Prevention means investing in education, resources, and policies that reduce the risk of harm to children and empower those around them to take action when necessary.

“Let us use this month to renew our commitment to child protection, to strengthen the safety nets around our children, and to remember that every effort we make no matter how small, contributes to a brighter tomorrow for the children we are entrusted to protect.”

Child Protection Month, 2025, is held under the theme: “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”

“As we reflect on this year’s theme, we are reminded that hope is a powerful resource. Hope fuels the belief that every child has the right to be protected and loved. Hope compels us to act and to create the systems of support that allow children to reach their full potential. However, hope alone is not enough.”

Mr. Lightbourne said it is only through a “collective commitment to hope, that we can continue to drive forward the vital work of child protection.”

“Throughout the world, children represent the future – our future. Every child deserves a safe, loving and nurturing environment where they can positively grow, learn, and thrive. Yet we know that for many children, this is not always the reality.  Across the globe, children continue to face abuse, neglect and exploitation – often at the hands of those that they trust.

“Together, we are not just hoping for a better future, we are creating one. A future where every child is safe, supported, and loved. A future where we prevent harm before it happens, and where the strength of our communities empowers every child to reach their full potential.”

Minister Lightbourne acknowledged the “tireless efforts of those on the frontlines” — child protection workers, social services teams, our community leaders, health care professionals, police officers, juvenile and family magistrates, guidance counsellors and parents.

“Their unwavering and dedicated support ensures that children who are at-risk are safeguarded, and their voices heard. But this work cannot be done alone. Every single one of us has a role to play. From our families and neighbourhoods to our schools and workplaces, we all have a responsibility to protect our children in our communities,” he added.