Action statement against child abuse 22/04/2008 00:00

Thirty-five Dutch towns and provinces have committed themselves to better cooperation against child abuse.

22 April 2008

THE NETHERLANDS - Thirty-five Dutch towns and provinces have signed an action statement against child abuse, in which they commit themselves to better cooperation.

A series of rules on reporting cases of child abuse will be introduced for doctors, schools and other parties, and additional training will be provided to people working with parents and children.

The new nationwide approach is intended to lead to earlier recognition of signs that a child is being abused and to prevent uncoordinated efforts by various agencies.

The nationwide introduction of the new approach follows trials in a number of towns.

Each year, at least 100,000 children in The Netherlands are reported to be abused.

[Radio Netherlands / Expatica]