Protecting children is more than reacting to harm- Hon Wheatley
"In the Virgin Islands, our commitment to safeguard our children is more than policy; it is a moral obligation," Dr Wheatley added.
He said for years the Social Development Department and dedicated child protection partners have worked tirelessly to defend this cause.
Honourable Wheatley added that the Social Development Department and child protection partners have been pivotal in establishing robust frameworks to prevent abuse, ensure protection, and support healing for children affected by abuse. These agencies work to identify risks, respond to cases, and build safe environments where our children can grow, learn, and thrive.
'Prevention begins with us'
"Prevention begins with us – as parents, caregivers, teachers, neighbours and leaders. It is our first and strongest line of defence."
Honourable Wheatley added that prevention is about creating a society that understands and respects the inherent value of every child.
"Through community education and awareness campaigns led by the Social Development Department, we are empowering families, and strengthening early intervention systems. The Department is committed to equipping parents, educators, and caregivers with the tools needed to recognise the signs of abuse and the courage to intervene.
"By supporting families with resources and guidance, we aim to prevent abuse before it occurs, ensuring that children are surrounded by a nurturing network from the start," Hon Wheatley stated.
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1 Response to “Protecting children is more than reacting to harm- Hon Wheatley”
This is a severe form of emotional-psychological domestic violence perpetrated on both the targeted parent and the victimised child. It is the most brutal and savage form of abuse. The awful outcome of parental alienation is the complete separation of a child or children from a parent. Even more dreadful is that it is deliberately caused, maliciously done, and entirely preventable. This terrible form of child abuse has long-lasting effects for all concerned.
My book "For the Sake of the Children" is a personal account of parental alienation from a Virgin Island and Caribbean perspective. It can be accessed at: https://www.studiopublications.org/product-page/for-the-sake-of-the-children
Roger Burnett