45 www.rnca.ca In Newfoundland and Labrador it is everyone’s responsibility to report any information concerning child abuse and neglect. If you suspect that a child has been abused or neglected, or if a child tells you that she/he has been abused or neglected, it is the law to report it immediately. You must report suspected child abuse and neglect to your local Children, Seniors and Social Development office or to the local police. • If children disclose information about being abused or neglected, they are saying they trust you. Listen and believe! • Be a friend to a child. Show her or him by example that people can settle problems without violence. • Pay attention to the child who displays overly aggressive, withdrawn and submissive behaviors, or the child who is failing to thrive. These are often signs of abuse. • Involve children in community activities. Friendships can help them gain the security they may be missing in their families. Important messages for children to hear are: • Violence is not okay; no one deserves to be abused; • It’s not your fault. You are not to blame for the violence; • All feelings are okay. Feeling angry is okay, but it’s not okay to hurt others because you are angry; • You have the right to be safe and happy; and • It you are feeling sad or scared, tell someone. We don’t have to keep secrets that make us feel that way. To report child abuse call your local Children, Seniors and Social Development or contact your local police or call tollfree 18335522368. How to Help a Child ExperiencingViolence Designed by Freepik continued
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