abuse cases, it was reported.

Last year the Department of Child and Family Services responded to 381 cases of neglect, physical and sexual abuse, according to recently released statistics.

And in the past year alone there has been a 28 percent rise in reported cases.

Over half of the children involved -- 212 cases -- were the victims of neglect. That figure is up from 129 in 1997 and 159 in 1998 -- a 33 percent increase over 1998.

Sexual abuse cases are also on the rise after falling briefly in 1998. Last year, 69 children were victims of sexual abuse. That number is up from 50 in 1998. There were 63 cases of sexual abuse in 1997.

And physical abuse cases are at the highest level since the Department began releasing child abuse statistics in 1997.

One hundred children were physically abused last year according the statistics released yesterday in conjunction with Child Abuse Prevention month.

Mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse has been required of child care professionals since 1998 when the Children's Act was enacted. This year the Department hopes to raise awareness about the Act through their month long prevention campaign.

"In recognition of the need to protect, the Department of Child and Family Services is highlighting Physical Abuse this year and the slogan for 2001 is `Don't Beat... Retreat!' We are encouraging caretakers not to beat, but to retreat and think of alternative methods of disciplining their children,'' said a statement released by the department yesterday.

"Recognising that no single agency can protect children from abuse without the help of family, friends, neighbours and all who come into contact with children, the Department of Child and Family Services believes that all adults have a moral responsibility to take action to report cases of suspected abuse.'' The Department has also established a confidential line for child abuse referrals -- 239-KIDS(5437) -- so that it can be quickly contacted by friends, relatives, neighbours or other members of the public when they suspect child abuse is occurring.

However, last night no one was answering that line when The Royal Gazette attempted to call for additional information.

"The Department of Child and Family Services will continue to promote the message that children are our most valued resource and should be treasured and that every effort be made to make their lives abuse free,'' said the statement.

See also Charity, MP on Page 3 Child abuse on the rise Over the "Don't Beat... Retreat'' campaign the department will be trying to raise awareness on the various forms of child abuse and alternative methods of dealing with them.

"While April has been designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Department of Child and Family Services works throughout the year to protect children from harm, promote the integrity of the family and ensure that the welfare of Bermuda's children is a number one priority,'' said the statement.

DISTURBING TREND Year Physical abuse Sex abuse Neglect 1997 40 63 129 1998 81 50 159 1999 58 61 179 2000 100 69 212