1 September 2004

National Child Protection Week: 5-11 September 2004
In supporting National Child Protection Week 2004, the Australian Nursing Federation said nurses were in a unique position to not only identify children at risk of and suffering from abuse and neglect but also to work with communities to develop awareness of the problem and ultimately, the protection of children.

'Nurses work in a wide range of areas and specialisations such as in children's hospitals, in schools and in the community, often working intimately with children and families,' ANF Assistant Federal Secretary Ged Cowin said.

'Nurses understand that raising children can be tough, but nurses also understand that building healthy communities and supporting families is integral to protecting children.'

National Child Protection Week is based on the idea that 'protecting children is everyone's business'.

According to Adam Foster, Executive Officer of the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN): 'A community-based approach is necessary to prevent child abuse and neglect. The solution lies in community involvement and support - a protective safety net around children and families. Research has indicated that engaging the whole community generates greater results not only in minimising immediate risks, but also preventing long-term abuse.'

In 2003, 40,000 children were abused and/or neglected - a 33% increase from the previous year*.

To find out more about National Child Protection Week and register a community activity go to: www.napcan.org.au.

* 'Child Protection Australia 2002-03' Report. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2004.

Media inquiries:
Jill Iliffe, ANF Federal Secretary 0419 576 590
Ged Cowin, ANF Assistant Federal Secretary 0417 053 322
Heather Witham, ANF Federal Communications Officer 0417 359 907

The ANF, representing 140,000 members, is the professional and industrial voice for nurses in Australia.