TO strengthen public awareness on child safety and encourage early reporting of abuse in Guyana, the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) in partnership with UNICEF and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has launched a National Child Protection Awareness and Prevention campaign titled “SEE. SAY. SAFE.”

The campaign aims to equip both children and adults with the knowledge needed

to recognise and respond to unsafe situations, as well as support the prevention of

child sexual abuse.

The nationwide effort will utilise radio, television, social media,

schools and community outreaches to reach children and families across the

country.

“Many children who experience harm do not speak about it, often due to fear or

uncertainty. This campaign is about ensuring that children feel safe to speak, and

that adults are prepared to listen, respond appropriately, and take action,” said Ms.

Aleema Nasir, Chairperson of the RCC.

Over the coming months, the campaign will focus on helping adults recognise the

signs that a child is being abused and adopt protective and safeguarding practices,

in order to better ensure children’s safety, teaching children about safe and unsafe

behaviours, addressing stigma that prevents disclosure and promoting clear and

accessible reporting pathways.

The initiative also emphasises that abuse can occur in familiar environments and

that all children, including boys, deserve protection, support, and belief.

Dr Loria-Mae Heywood, UNICEF Child Protection Specialist in Guyana noted that,

“When families and communities are informed and respond appropriately,

children are safer. This campaign strengthens the link between awareness and

action,” Dr Heywood said.

Noting that early intervention plays a critical role in protecting children and

supporting justice processes, Mrs. Teshana Lake, Assistant Director of Public

Prosecutions (ADPP) stressed the importance of prompt reporting of such serious

matters to the Guyana Police Force.

“Timely reporting in Sexual Offences helps to preserve evidence and it allows survivors to receive timely support,” she said.

As part of the campaign, the public will also be invited to participate in a short

anonymous survey online to help stakeholders better understand awareness levels

and enhance child protection services.

The RCC, UNICEF and the Office of the DPP along with key stakeholders are

encouraging all members of the public to take part in the campaign by looking out

for trigger signs that a child is being abused, listening to children, and reporting

concerns to the appropriate authorities like the Childcare and Protection Agency

(CPA) on the 914 hotline or the nearest police station.

“Protecting children is a shared responsibility. When we see, when we speak up,

we help to keep children safe,” the RCC Chairperson encouraged. (UNICEF)