April 14-20 is Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Week in British Columbia, a time to recognize the traumatic impacts of child sexual abuse and the importance of working together to keep children safe.

Child sexual abuse is a serious social problem, with the most conservative research estimates indicating at least 10 per cent of boys and 20 per cent of girls are victimized. Sexual abuse may be associated with a host of personal, social and health problems, including the loss of self-esteem, relationship problems, mental-health problems, problematic substance abuse, economic hardship, homelessness and suicide.

Public awareness, community education and clinical services and support for children and families, including those provided by Sexual Abuse Intervention Programs (SAIP) throughout the province, are key to addressing the issue. The Ministry of Children and Family Development provides funding for 49 SAIP agencies. Supports and services, such as counselling, also are provided by community-based Child and Youth Mental Health teams.

The Province also operates Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) units, which provide specialized medical assessment for children and youth who have been, or are suspected of being sexually and/or physically abused. The SCAN units are located in every region of the province.

There's also a toll-free 24 hour helpline for children - 310-1234 - which can be accessed from anywhere in B.C. No area code is needed and anyone can call - children or teenagers who need help, parents in crisis or anyone who knows or suspects a child is being abused or neglected.

Quotes:

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development -

"We all have a role to play in preventing child sexual abuse and helping children when we think they need someone to speak up for them. It's important for children to know who they can turn to when they need help."

"We need to create a supportive environment for children so that they can speak openly about their concerns and doubts, or disclose sexual abuse to someone they trust."

Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -

"There is no priority more important than ensuring that children and youth who may have been abused are receiving appropriate services and supports. In addition to all of the other work being done, we have provided funding and support to service providers working within the justice system to make it a less intimidating place for children."

"Together, we can work to stop child abuse before it happens, and ensure that children are provided with the services and supports that they deserve."

Learn More:

For information on the indicators of child abuse, how to report suspected abuse and a range of child-welfare and child-protection resources, please visit: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/child_protection/index.htm

For information on the ministry community-based, Child and Youth Mental Health programs and services in the province, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/index.htm

Contact:

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 213-5811 (cell)