FEDERAL MP Warren Entsch is urging Leichhardt residents to “play their part” when it comes to child safety.
With Child Protection Week kicking off this Sunday, September 1, Mr Entsch has thrown his support behind the annual campaign, which aims to raise community awareness and provoke collective action on the issue.
“As a father, and a grandfather, I know that when you are raising a child, your biggest priority is to make sure they feel as safe and secure as possible,” Mr Entsch said.
“That is why I am proud to support this fantastic initiative.”
Mr Entsch said the need for family support services had never been more important.
“Child Protection Week is about drawing attention to the all-too common issues of child abuse and neglect,” he said.
“Sadly, today we are seeing more and more of these cases than ever before.
“It might make us uncomfortable but it is a reality that many children become victims.”
Mr Entsch said it was an issue that affected everyone in the community.
“Every child has the right to live a full and productive life in an environment that builds confidence, friendship, security and happiness, irrespective of their family circumstances and background,” he said.
“It would be great to see the community rally behind this week and spread the word to their friends, family and colleagues,” Mr Entsch said.
By promoting the value of children and focusing attention on the issues of child abuse and neglect, the objectives of Child Protection Week are to:
– Raise the profile of all issues connected with child protection, including child abuse prevention, treatment, research, education, service provision and support for children, young people and families
– Create a state-wide umbrella focus for child protection allowing government and non-government agencies to present a cooperative and coordinated community oriented campaign
– Support and value professionals and volunteer child protection workers by providing ‘best practice’ training and a forum to exchange ideas and information
– Offer a framework to recognise advances in the field, and thereby contribute to better outcomes for all children and young people, especially those who have been harmed or are at risk of harm.
Child Protection Week was developed in extensive consultation with a wide range of people involved in the delivery of services to vulnerable children, young people and families.
This year’s theme is Protecting Children is Everybody’s Business ? Play your Part.
Child Protection Week is coordinated nationally by NAPCAN and, in Queensland, by the Child Protection Week Committee under the auspicing body of ACT for Kids.
MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Beck (Mr Entsch’s office) 0427 585 668.
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