Children are happy when they feel safe
In a perfect world, every child is protected, safe and cared for. When a child feels safe, they are able to explore, try new things and learn. By helping children feel safe we create a good environment for learning now, and into the future. Child protection is everyone’s business, and this is the theme for Child Protection Week in Queensland this September. The responsibility lies with adults and members of our community to ensure children are nurtured and safe.
A group of children and young people, along with four organisations, recently came together to discuss how we can work together as a community to support and guide our youth. There was also a sense of celebration for carers and all those who offer extensive care to young people in out of home care. The discussion was captured in a touching video to acknowledge Child Protection Week in Queensland.
Jesse is a young person who has experienced parental separation and the ripple effects this has had on him and his family. He says that he felt lucky and privileged that having other family around to guide and support him, even though it was not directly from his parents, was always very encouraging.
These sentiments are echoed by Bryan Smith, Queensland Foster and Kinship Care Executive Director. “Child safety is about being part of a community and awareness of the needs of children and young people, especially those who have suffered trauma. By educating and equipping the community, the better the resources our young people are provided with and the better respect of them being little people in this world,” Bryan said.
Take a look at the insights provided by children and young people and representatives from Queensland Foster and Kinship Carers, Anglicare Southern Queensland, Goodstart Early Learning and Davange Training Group in this collaborative video.
If you would like more information including tips for keeping children safe:
