This week marks the beginning of National Child Protection Week, an opportunity to recognise the important role we as a health service play in helping prevent child abuse and neglect.
An initiative of the National Association of Prevention of Child abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), this year’s theme – ‘every child, in every community, needs a fair go’ – focuses on the importance of the bigger picture and ensuring every child has an opportunity to thrive and be healthy.
Through our health services, we have the ability to build strong foundations for families and children and create a healthier, fairer Australia for all children.
When we provide clinical care, there are several strategies we can implement to ensure we are providing a safe community for our young patients. These strategies include:
- Remember to engage with the child or young person. Listen to their experiences, as well as attend to their health needs.
- Use age-appropriate language to communicate. Be aware of what is developmentally appropriate for that child or young person.
- Be culturally sensitive.
- Support parents, families, and caregivers and link them to community support services if they are needed.
- Look for the positives in families and build on these, as well as be aware of potential risks and the need for further support.
- Stay informed on the links between abuse, early intervention, and prevention.
At Monash Health we have policies and procedures in place to guide you around what to do when you suspect a child is at risk of harm. To learn more about these policies and to ensure we create safe environments for children and young people, please access PROMPT and search ‘child protection’.
For more information and to get involved in National Child Protection Week visit the NAPCAN website. There are several resources available, as well as a free webinar series, during the week.
If you or someone you are concerned about would like further resources on respectful relationships and family violence, please visit the Monash Health COVID-19 employee website.
Approved by Kym Forrest.