1 in 5 children in the Emergency Room due to child abuse
In the Netherlands, an estimated 119,000 children fall victim to child abuse each year. Terrible. And these figures may even be significantly higher. Many cases of child abuse occur behind closed doors and go unnoticed by the outside world. Since January 1, 2019, the new Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Reporting Code has been in effect to ensure that both domestic violence and child abuse can be identified and addressed as quickly as possible.
Have you ever ended up in the emergency room with your little one? For example, due to a fall from the climbing frame or a burn from a cup of hot coffee? Then you may have noticed that the doctor asks many questions: how exactly did it happen? What went wrong? Where were you when the accident occurred? These questions are part of a standard child abuse protocol for professionals. By asking questions, the doctor aims to gain insight into the situation and will assess whether it was just an ordinary fall or if there are suspicions of child abuse.
Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Reporting Code
Of course, you know very well what happened, but did you know that in 20% of the children who end up in the emergency room in Amsterdam, there is a case of child abuse? When thinking of child abuse, consider not only physical violence but also psychological or sexual violence and neglect. The reporting code assists professionals in such situations. Based on 5 steps, professionals determine whether they should make a report to Veilig Thuis – the advice and reporting center for domestic violence and child abuse – and whether sufficient help can be provided.
How does the reporting code work?
Professionals, such as the doctor or a caregiver at the daycare, follow a step-by-step plan when there are signs of child abuse. A sign could be a bruise or burn, but also, for example, unusual behavior of a child. After mapping out signals, thorough consultation with colleagues, and a conversation with the individuals involved, the professional will determine whether the suspicions persist and whether there is acute or structural insecurity. Based on a profession-specific assessment framework, it can then be determined whether help can be provided or if a report should be made to Veilig Thuis. Veilig Thuis can then check if more reports have been made and offers support so that the child receives the appropriate help.
Should I be worried?
If you visit the doctor with your little one and the doctor asks you the same questions multiple times, you certainly don't need to worry. Professionals are trained to distinguish cases of domestic violence from accidents that often occur with small children. A bruise from a fall from the climbing frame will not lead to a report to Veilig Thuis.
Veilig Thuis
Did you know that Veilig Thuis is not only for professionals? Even if you have suspicions of child abuse yourself, it is important that you take action. You can do this yourself:
- Talk to those involved
- Be there for the child
- Call Veilig Thuis at 0800 – 2000
- Immediate emergency? Then contact the police
Sources: