Lami recorded the highest number of child abuse and neglect cases last year

Lami recorded the highest number of child abuse and neglect cases in Fiji last year.

According to statistics received under the Child Welfare Decree, 34 child abuse and neglect cases were recorded in Lami last year.

There were 8 cases of neglect, 7 cases of physical abuse and three cases of sexual abuse recorded in Lami last year.

A case of emotional and verbal abuse was also recorded while there was one case of attempted suicide connected to child abuse.

8 cases of teenage pregnancy related to child abuse were also recorded in the area.

The Ministry of Children says this could be due to a number of factors including high population, numerous informal settlements, greater awareness and also more reporting.

A Family Fun Day for residents in Lami was held today at Tikaram Park to create awareness on the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.

It was organised by the Fiji National Coordinating Committee on Children with the theme “Stronger Families, Safe Children“.

The purpose of the Family Fun Day was to provide parents and community leaders information on where to access help in raising children.

Different activities were organised for children at the Family Fun Day which included presentations on child abuse and neglect, fire safety and also proper hand washing practices.

Hundreds of children from Lami were part of the event.

More than 700 child abuse and neglect cases were reported to the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation last year.