National Child Protection Week 2014
The Acting Commander of the NSW Police Force’s Child Abuse Squad has urged community members to contact police if they are concerned about the safety of any children in NSW.
Detective Acting Superintendent Peter Yeomans said National Child Protection Week served as a timely opportunity to remind members of the public about the important role they can play in helping vulnerable children.
“This year’s National Child Protection Week is all about reminding the public that everyone has a part to play in protecting children,” Detective Acting Superintendent Yeomans said.
“Over the course of the last 12 months, the Child Abuse Squad has charged 774 people with more than 3,500 offences as part of their investigations into the sexual assault and serious physical abuse of children under the age of 16.
“On average, we’re arresting and charging at least two people every single day for serious sexual offences and abuse committed against the most vulnerable people in our community – children.
“What’s equally as concerning is the fact that in more than 90 per cent of the cases we investigate, the children have been abused by someone they know.
“It’s absolutely vital that members of the public play their part in helping us and other government agencies protect our kids.
“If you have any concerns about a child in your community, please contact Crime Stoppers or the Child Protection Helpline.”
The Child Abuse Squad is comprised of detectives who are specially trained to investigate crimes against children, including sexual assault, physical abuse and serious cases of neglect. The squad works in partnership with the Department of Family and Community Services and NSW Health.
Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/. Reports can also be made to the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111.
Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. People should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.
National Child Protection Week runs from 7 – 13 September 2014. For further information, please visit https://napcan.org.au/ncpw/.