In the event of suspected child abuse, either emotional, physical, sexual or neglect, these are the steps that will be followed:

  • I will listen carefully to what the child says (in private)
  • I will be attentive to the child’s behaviour
  • I will show my concern, calmly without overreacting
  • I will ask if anything is wrong without leading into an answer
  • I will let the child know I am available to listen anytime and be reassuring
  • I will document the child’s words or behaviour that may indicate abuse has occurred
  • I will contact the Ministry for Children and Family Development if I strongly suspect abuse and fear for the safety of the child. Child Abuse is a serious crime and it is the legal responsibility of any citizen to report suspected child