National Child Protection Week invites everyone to understand their role in keeping kids safe

‘Every child, in every community, needs a fair go. To treat all of Australia’s children fairly, we need to make sure every family and community has what kids need to thrive and be healthy.’ is the theme of National Child Protection Week 2021 which kicks off on Fathers’ Day, 5 September. 

NAPCAN – the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect – will be coordinating a range of free events including a program of free webinars open to everyone.

During the week, there will be free webinars covering topics such as: 

• COVID and child mental health 
• What every neighbourhood needs in order for children to do well 
• How communication can shape early childhood outcomes
• Importance of cultural connection for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
• Ensuring that children and young people with disability receive a fair go
• Respectful relationships education for teens
• Addressing domestic violence in the fight to end child abuse 
• Safe social media usage for children (including sessions for parents and classroom events for teachers). 

Centacare NQ facilitates a range of programs across North Queensland which align with National Child Protection Week values and to coincide with the awareness campaign are releasing their new look BRIDGE brochure.

BRIDGE is a Specialised Family Support program which adapts with the times to provide practical and genuine support to North Queensland families.

A key message to come from Child Protection Week this year stated “Raising thriving healthy children is all-important and building young brains takes work. Parents need support to help children develop the skills they need.”

Centacare NQ’s Bridge Program Manager Cailin O’Rourke said “Sometimes parents need guidance through new situations, child development stages or structure in their household. Families also seek support in preventing problems occurring or in some instances happening again.”

“Our ideal goal is to have families feel that they have been supported, listened to and that the team has created individual plans unique to their needs. Our program does not have a cookie cutter approach and will adapt to the needs of clients.”

To access more information on Centacare NQ’s BRIDGE program please visit www.centacarenq.org.au or call 1300 672 273. This service is provided free of charge and is funded by the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs.