Safeguarding Children and Young People-Everyone’s Responsibility

Abstract

Safeguarding children is a pathway of protecting susceptible children and young people from abuse and neglect. Child Protection is part of safeguarding process which protects children identified as suffering from or likely to suffer significant harm. True incidence of child abuse is perceived to be much higher than reported in the literature. Adverse family dynamics and humanitarian disasters increase the risk of harm to children. Professionals working with children, especially paediatricians, can play a vital role in recognising and reporting child abuse. There is an urgent need to roll out mandatory child protection training program nationally. This training is likely to raise awareness and better equip paediatricians and other professionals with the knowledge and skills to empower them to recognise various forms child abuse. Appropriate infrastructure and legislative support is of paramount importance to protect children reported to the statutory authorities.