prevention through community collaboration.

Child abuse is a complex problem with a multitude of causes. Many children in Bermuda are physically ill treated, victims of sexual abuse, often by family members and neglected by parents or guardians.

According to Luelle Todd, director of the Department of Child and Family Services, "Child abuse involves a process in which harm is inflicted upon a child by a care taker. This harm significantly hinders or impairs the child's normal development and ability to interact with others and the environment.'' Basically there are four forms of child abuse: Physical abuse Child neglect Emotional abuse Sexual abuse In 1998 the Department of Child and Family Services responded to 81 allegations of physical abuse. There were 50 allegations of sexual abuse and 159 allegations of child neglect.

Ms Todd advised: "The department verified and intervened in 54 cases of physical abuse, 20 cases of sexual abuse and 111 of child neglect. Under the new legislations, The Children Act 1998, emotional abuse will also be targeted.'' There is a difference between discipline and child abuse. Discipline helps the child learn right from wrong behaviour, self-control, responsibility and self-esteem. Discipline shows children that their behaviour has consequences.

Child abuse has the opposite effect and leads to more anger and hatred, negative behaviour, low self-esteem and poor parent-child relationships. Child abuse involves hitting, slapping, bruises, pulling hair, and burning.

Forms of emotional abuse are name calling, criticism, rejection, yelling, withholding comfort and humiliation. Emotionally abused children lose confidence in themselves and does as much damage as physical abuse.

Child abuse prevention is a community responsibility. Healthy communities produce healthy families.

Child abuse costs the community. Many victims commit crimes, experience mental health problems and perpetuate family dysfunction.

"Every person needs to become more educated about child abuse. The new Children Act 1998, places a duty on everyone to report situations where children may be victims of abuse or neglect,'' said Ms Todd.

The Department of Child and Family Services and the Inter-Agency Committee (comprised of over 40 organisations) share a common goal to prevent, network and collaborate in matters related to children and families. April is set aside to specifically focus on child abuse prevention.

The committee's goal's for the month are: Increase community awareness of the problem of child abuse.

Recognise the cost to individuals, families and community if abuse/neglect is not prevented or if early intervention does not occur.

Make information available to the public about how best to prevent child abuse.

Children do not ask to be born. Every child needs to be loved and nurtured in a home where he/she feels safe and protected.