Fed: System putting vulnerable children at greater risk of harm

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-2008
Fed: System putting vulnerable children at greater risk of harm

Vulnerable children are being put at even greater risk of harm because of a lack of
early intervention and protection services.

Despite a surge in the number of reported child abuse and neglect cases .. an Australian
Institute of Family Studies review's found many aren't being followed up.

The research shows .. more than 150 cases of child abuse and neglect are reported to
authorities each day .. but less than one in five are substantiated.

Researcher Dr DARYL HIGGINS says there's a serious lack of resources for prevention
and treatment services .. meaning families with high-level needs aren't getting help.

Dr HIGGINS says the lack of follow-up services is having an adverse impact on children
who came in contact with the system.

AAP RTV sld/kms/ka/fdf

KEYWORD: CHILD (CANBERRA)

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