The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago says the abuse of children is unacceptable.
Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority says, “the video circulating on social media, which shows an adult female kicking a child, is a stark reminder that too many of our nation’s children are experiencing abuse at the hands of their caregivers”. He adds that “too often, the persons charged with the responsibility to love and protect children are the ones who commit heinous acts of abuse”.
The Director/CEO notes that “the Authority’s Emergency Response Team, which works collaboratively with the Child Protection Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, responded to the report. The child was taken for a medical and is currently in the care of the Authority”.
Mr. Cyrus says “the person who made the report must also be commended for seeing something and saying something”. He added that “Child Protection Is Everybody’s Business”, and while the Authority is not asking persons to intervene in situations, it is imperative to report concerns about the welfare of a child to the Police at 999 or the Authority at 996.
He adds that families in need of support should reach out to the following agencies if they feel overwhelmed:
The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services: 800-1673
The National Family Services Division: 623-2608 ext. 6701-6711
The Trinidad and Tobago Association of Psychologists: 717-8827
The Student Support Services Division of the Ministry of Education: 724-1010
Childline: 131