“Protecting children is everyone’s business” was the key message the Service Expo for Child Protection Week wanted the Hawkesbury community to get.
The attendees from more than 20 agencies weren’t wearing Superman suits, but they stood together to represent the interests of children at Windsor on September 7, to strengthen their connections with each other for the vital work they do.
Richmond Community Services’ family support co-ordinator said attendees wanted to encourage the community to realise that everyone can play a part in preventing child abuse and neglect, and that “even small acts can help build a safer community”.
Ways that we can all help are:
- Be kind to children and parents
- Rather than blame parents, think of ways to support them
- Listen to the needs of children and spend time with them
- Be a good role model around children
- Learn about what resources and services are available and share these with those who need them.
- Look out for signs of abuse or neglect and seek help if needed.
The expo was held at Hawkesbury Community Services in Brabyn Street, with speakers from Colo High School and Nepean Child & Adolescent Health team addressing the crowd and all groups sharing resources and information on what they do.
The local services involved included family support services, Hawkesbury Community Health, DOCS, school counsellors, housing services and many more.