Focus on child abuse

CHILD abuse and neglect will be the focus of a new program set to start in Casey next year.
Minister for Children, Sherryl Garbutt, last week launched the new $15 million Child First initiative that will help concerned professionals, and others, link vulnerable families into child and family services.
The new program will start next March and be introduced in nine Victorian municipalities, including the City of Casey, and nearby City of Greater Dandenong and Cardinia Shire.
Ms Garbutt said Child First would help struggling families get help more quickly.
The service will take referrals from concerned professionals and others and assess what the family needs and then link the family into the best available local services.
“Victoria’s falling rates of child abuse back research that shows getting services to families under pressure earlier can prevent abuse and neglect,” Ms Garbutt said.
“At the moment, many professionals, such as teachers and health workers or police, and families may not know what welfare support services are available locally.
“Referred help could include Maternal and Child Health services, childcare and preschool, mothers’ groups and parent support groups, school holiday programs, household management, as well as in home support and basic health and educational support for children, such as financial aid for clothes, books or household goods.
“If a family has more pressing needs, the service may offer temporary support while a long-term plan is developed with local agencies. Workers could also contact Child Protection authorities if a child is believed to be at risk of abuse or neglect.”