Protection of Children from Violence and Child Abuse

Globally, it is estimated that as many as 1 billion children between the ages of 2 and 17 have encountered physical, sexual, or emotional violence, as well as neglect, within the past year. In Hong Kong, according to SWD Child Protection Registry Statistical Report, there has been a worrisome upward trend of over 50% in the number of child abuse cases, from 940 cases in 2020 to 1,457 cases in 2023. Among various forms of maltreatment, physical abuse stands out as the most prevalent. These alarming statistics serve as a reminder of the critical need to address and eradicate child abuse and violence against children.

What is child abuse and violence against child? How can we eradicate them?

Violence against children takes many forms. Except the mentioned ones, it also includes verbal abuse, trafficking, and humiliating punishment, and others. Violence against children can take place at home, in school, online, in institutions, at work, and in the community. It affects children from all walks of life and has a devastating long-term impact on children. Growing up with violence seriously affects a child’s development, dignity, and physical and psychological integrity. And yet, in many countries, a lot of violence against children remains legal and is viewed as socially acceptable.

In over 120 countries around the world, Save the Children works with children, parents, caregivers, and professionals who work with children, to change attitudes, knowledge and behaviour so that violence against children is no longer tolerated. In Hong Kong, we assist parents in understanding and communicating with their children, fostering collaborative problem-solving, for example through “Heart to Heart” Parent-Child Programme.

We prioritise creating a safe and valued space for children, hence, we provide Child Safeguarding Service, helping child-facing organisations improve their knowledge, skills, and internal systems to keep children safe. For example, we organise policy development and training to child-facing organisations, ensuring their operations prioritise child safety. Additionally, we advocate for legal bans on all forms of violence in collaboration with the government.

If you suspect or encounter cases of violence against children, please seek help immediately through the following channels:

Social Welfare Department Hotline: 2343 2255

ACA Parent-child Support Line：2755 1122

You may also refer to this document for 24-hour hotlines and details of Family and Child Protective Services Unit in different districts.

Interview of Director and Actor of the Movie “Time Still Turns the Pages”

“Time Still Turns the Pages” is a film that sheds light on violence against children and the mental well-being of children. Actor,  Sean, was also involved in the making of the short film “The Sound of Violence.” Here is the interview with Nick Cheuk, the director of “Time Still Turns the Pages,” and actor Sean, where they share their views on child protection and the “The Sound of Violence” short film.

Support us to help every child build a brighter future: 

Your donation allows us to have sufficient resources to formulate long-term and effective child assistance programmes. Locally, we can exert our maximum effort to promote children’s mental wellbeing, enhance their social-emotional skills, and promote “positive education” to parents. Before any incidents of violence or abuse cases occur, we aim to establish a foundation of pleasant environments and positive communication for children and their families, helping our next generation to thrive. Please support the children to grow without violence.