Grants available for Child Protection Week

Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle is encouraging community organisations to help stamp out child abuse by holding an event during Child Protection Week, from September 2-9.

The Queensland Government has allocated $85,000 for Child Protection Week, which includes funds for community organisations to hold events and activities.

“In the past, grants have helped to fund parenting workshops, information displays and family fun days,” Ms Boyle said.

“It’s about getting the message out there on all kinds of levels. Right across the community, everyone has a role to play in preventing child abuse.

“Parents have a role – if they get into strife they need to put up their hands and ask for help.

“Previous generations have had extended family networks to call on for support. With many families disjointed with no nearby relations, as a community we all need to consider offering a helping hand.

“It might be as simple as sharing parenting tips with a neighbour over coffee or babysitting for a friend who is struggling and needs some time out.”

Last year in Queensland there were over 11,800 substantiated notifications of harm or risk of harm to children and young people, Ms Boyle said.

Grants of up to $1000 are available for events that promote child-friendly communities, actively include and involve children and young people and acknowledge and celebrate diversity.

For more information about applying for a grant, go to www.childsafety.qld.gov.au and click on Child Protection Week activity grants under “Headlines”. Applications close on Tuesday, June 19.

Ends

Media contact: 3224 7477