Press Room

We thank Ms Fernandez for her letter 'Take steps to stop child abuse'. MCYS has been working closely with various agencies to ensure that children whose parents are unable to care for them, including those whose parents have been incarcerated, are placed in proper care environments and receive adequate support services.  When referred to MCYS for assistance, we first assess whether there are suitable caregivers from the child’s extended family.  If this is not possible, the child will be placed in the care of foster parents who are registered, screened and supervised by MCYS, or in a children’s home. 

To better detect cases of child abuse, we will need the support of the wider community.  MCYS conducts regular training for professionals including school counsellors, medical social workers, family service centre workers, child care teachers, healthcare personnel and law enforcement officers on the signs of child abuse and how such cases should be managed.  We have also established the National Family Violence Networking System, a network to integrate the management of cases on family violence.  

For wider public awareness, MCYS embarks on public education efforts through media coverage, community and school outreach and publicity material at common touch points.  We encourage any person who suspects that a child is being abused to inform the police at 999 or the MCYS Child Protection Service at 1-800-777-0000 promptly.