The Department of Social Development and Welfare hosted a profoundly impactful panel discussion, “Beyond the Law: How Can Communities Foster a Culture of Zero Tolerance for Child Abuse?” at Brayton Hall. This event brought together eight esteemed panelists, each a trained expert in their field, including:
- Mrs. Stacey Jogie (Education Representative)
- Dr. Angela Brooks (Legal Expert)
- Mrs. Ashley Adams-Forbes (Director of Social Development & Welfare)
- Inspector Ensa Wilson (Law Enforcement Representative)
- Mr. Joseph Vixaille (Creole Community Representative)
- Mrs. Lucrecia Martinez (Dominican Community Representative)
- Rev. Alces Dor (Religious Leader)
- Dr. Amatti Sani (Medical Expert)
The discussion addressed critical topics such as the role of communities in child safeguarding beyond legal measures, barriers to reporting abuse, and strategies for fostering a culture of zero tolerance for child abuse.
While the panel was rich with insight and expertise, the turnout from major stakeholders and the broader community highlighted a troubling truth: the stigma surrounding child abuse often prevents open dialogue. Many prefer the anonymity of online forums of myths, misunderstandings, and unqualified opinions by the naysayers, the hear Sayers, oppositionists and lore-bearers over engaging directly with solutions.
A matter as urgent as child abuse affecting the safety, well-being, and future of our children in the Turks and Caicos Islands, deserves the undivided attention of all.
Child abuse is a reality in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and silence only allows it to persist. Most times, persons believe that they are exempted or immune, thinking this will never happen to them. Unfortunately, child abuse knows no boundaries it transcends race, gender, and socioeconomic status.
As a society, we must collectively commit to breaking the silence, setting aside our differences, and supporting the agencies and individuals working tirelessly to safeguard our children. Child abuse is a serious concern that demands our collective attention and action. There can be no exceptions, no excuses, and no allowances for ignorance of the law or favoritism based on personal connections. Child abuse is child abuse, and it must be confronted with unwavering determination.
This is a call to action for every citizen, organisation, and institution- Child abuse is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have a role to play in fostering safe, nurturing environments for our children to thrive.
The Department of Social Development and Welfare remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the children of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through ongoing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives, and in partnership with community stakeholders, the department continues to advocate for stronger measures to safeguard our most vulnerable members of society our children.
For more information about the Department of Social Development and our programmes, please visit our website: www.gov.tc/dsd or email us at infodsd@gov.tc.
Contact numbers:
Providenciales: 1-649-338-4008
Grand Turk: 1-649-338-2684
North & Middle Caicos: 1-649-338-6411/12
South Caicos: 1-649-338-6321
To report a safeguarding matter or concern to this department, kindly see contact information:
MASH: 1-649-338-4013
Leave a Reply