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Article 19

"You have the right to be protected in mind, body, and soul." - UNCRC

Children should be loved and protected at home

loving home

This is not the case for some families.

Find out more
scared child

What is child abuse?

Children can face multiple forms of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual, or emotional abuse.

Child abuse is a major issue in New Zealand:

- According to a UNICEF report, a child dies every 5 weeks in New Zealand from family violence.

- New Zealand has the 7th highest rate of child murder in the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).

- More than two thirds of child victims of murder were aged 2 or under.

- According to UNICEF, “New Zealand has one of the worst records of child abuse in the developed world. Every year Oranga Tamariki (The Ministry for Children) receives more than 150,000 reports of concern relating to children.”

Some signs of child abuse include:

- Unexplained bruises, cuts, and other injuries

- Extreme changes in behaviour

- Aggressive or withdrawn from others

- Dressed to hide injuries

- Cautious around certain adults

- Show symptoms of depression and anxiety

- Show suicidal behaviour

What to do if you think a child is being abused:

Stay calm and make sure the child is safe. Talk carefully with the child and do not overwhelm them with questions. Reassure that you are there for the child.

Call the police (111) or Oranga Tamariki–Ministry for Children (0508 Family or 0508 326 459).

It is important to intervene early if you suspect that a child is being abused. Step up to save the child as it is their right to be protected in mind, body, and soul.


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