Participation in a six-week program co-ordinated by Uniting Care Burnside ensured they were armed with the appropriate tools and skills to prevent abuse and neglect at all levels.

“It raises awareness of abuse and neglect in the community and what to do about it,” course facilitator and Barnados families NSW worker Deb Malone said of the inaugural program.

She was assisted by Wellington Council Communities for Children early childhood co-ordinator Allison Grant and a series of workshops were held to deliver the information. The course was also carried out in a relaxed manner with plenty of opportunities for group discussion.

Ms Malone pointed out that abuse is not necessarily bodily harm.

“We identified the different forms of abuse and neglect,” she said. “They range from domestic violence to physical and sexual assault as well as emotional abuse.”

Ms Malone said the program ‘attracted a range of individuals and familes from different backgrounds’ ensuring the facts given will reach the wider community.

She believes the best way to handle any knowledge of abuse is simple.

“Notification,” she said.

“Learn protective behaviours and tell someone.”

Course participants have also been given a resource list providing contact information in the local region.

The Keeping Children Safe program was held at the WACHS Youth Centre.

Certificate recipients

Deb Hyde

Loretta Black

Melissa Meisch

Dawn Charman

Kelly Hill

Bevan Burns

Colleen Allen

Sharmayne Martin

Jade Wardle

Elsie Townsend

Karen May

Lisa Austin