Every child, every community, needs a fair go – National Child Protection Week

National Child Protection Week, from 5-11 September, is a campaign held annually across Australia to raise awareness of child abuse prevention – as well as the profile of all issues connected with child abuse and neglect.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) services – such as the Integrated Violence Prevention & Response Service (IVPRS) and Child & Family Health – provide education and support to the community and local services to work together to prevent child abuse.

“We believe all children in western Sydney, and Australia, should grow up feeling safe and knowing they are valued,” said Jay Pulvirenti, community development counsellor at IVPRS.

“Protecting children from harm is a whole community responsibility. Children can thrive and be healthy when they have what they need to develop well.”

Research highlights there are five things children need to thrive:

1. Connection and a sense of safety
2. The opportunity to talk with adults
3. Time to play
4. A healthy home
5. A sense of community. 

National Child Protection Week 2021 is an opportunity to translate this knowledge into action and make sure every family and community has what kids need to thrive and be healthy.

“We need to support every child, family and community according to their needs – and that’s what our collective work strives to do,” said WSLHD’s Integrated and Community Health Child and Family program lead Lyn Tunchon.

 “We want to make sure our communities have strong foundations for families and children – and our work starts with health services but extends into other aspects of the community.”

Joshua Hinchcliffe, senior counsellor with WSLHD’s Child and Family Health said many members of the western Sydney community are already playing their part every day

“People, are helping make great communities for children – through their work, as volunteers, as community members, and as family members.” said Josh.

“When we do this together we can give every child, in every neighbourhood, a fair go.”

For more information about National Child Protection Week 2021, please visit here.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger please call Triple Zero (000). 

If you, or someone you know, have questions about child abuse you can contact the following services for more information and support: 

• Child Protection Helpline (NSW) – 13 2111
• Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Integrated Violence Prevention & Response Service – 9881 8787
• Western Sydney Local Health District Child & Family Health – 1800 600 681