May 12, 1998
(Health)

Joan Marie Aylward, Minister of Health and Community Services, highlighted government's actions today regarding the 1997 Community Services Council (CSC) report on child sexual abuse.

The CSC completed Shifting the Focus in February 1997. The report examined how communities can take a more active role in determining effective approaches to education and prevention of child sexual abuse. The minister said: "The outcome of the report shows a willingness to address problems of child abuse within communities and that these communities recognize the necessity of a community response."

The research shows that people's attitudes are strongly influenced by their own knowledge and interpretation of the problem. In addition it was revealed that many professionals are still unaware of the signs of abuse. It is for this reason that education plays a vital role. Family Resource Centres also provide support, education, improved parenting abilities and encourage community involvement.

"In light of this report, workshops were delivered by CSC to child protection social workers in the Department of Human Resources and Employment (HRE) in October and November 1997," said the minister. "The workshops were an opportunity to increase workers education on issues of child abuse in the province." Funding for these events was provided through HRE and the Department of Justice through Victim Services.

"Until recently," the minister said: "issues of child abuse have been dealt with in several different departments. This is a perfect example of why we have integrated these services under the new Department of Health and Community Services. With these services under one department we can now better coordinate services and enhance delivery. The integration of workers and related services will lead to a stronger, more comprehensive response."

Research also indicated that communities desire help to make needed changes. To provide help the department has taken action to improve future support for people in need. "We have increased emphasis on family services and in turn improved resources for those in need," said Minister Aylward. "Youth in Care Network provides support and self-help for young people who have been in care. Youth Networks encourage young people to become involved in the community and play an active role in the outcome of their own lives. The department's provincial Strategy Against Violence also increases awareness of sexual abuse in the context of family violence. Each of these initiatives work toward our goal of abuse prevention and early intervention."

The recommendations from the Shifting the Focus report were among those taken into account in the development of a framework for the new Child Welfare Act. Government remains committed to working with communities and families in dealing with important issues such as child abuse. As Minister Aylward says and quotes from this report, "It takes a village to raise a child."

Contact: Glenn Bruce, Director of Communications, (709) 729-1377

1998 05 12 5:25 p.m.