Kidz First Child Protection Service

Public Service, Paediatrics, Community

Description

The Kidz First Child Protection Service provides consultation, support, education and liaison with all agencies with regard to child abuse/protection issues.

We provide non-acute medical assessment for children alleged to have been physically abused and/or neglected. Referrals are usually made by Ministry for Vulnerable Children Oranga Tamariki (MVCOT) or General Practitioners. This is a non-invasive therapeutic assessment.

The Kidz First Child Protection Service provides;

Consultation on child abuse cases
- in the Hospital
- in the Community
Support for Families
Support for Counties Manukau Health Staff
Interagency collaboration on child abuse issues
Development of Policy and Procedures for Counties Manukau Health

For children alleged to have been sexually abused, guidance for referral to the appropriate support services will be given. A non urgent sexual abuse clinic is provided at Te Pou Herenga Waka, Manukau.

Should you ever have concerns for the safety of a child/young person with regards to possible abuse or neglect then please contact the Ministry for Vulnerable Children Oranga Tamariki (MVCOT) on 0508 FAMILY (326459). Children that live within an environment where family violence is occurring can be emotionally affected and are at considerable risk of abuse. Consultation should be made with MVCOT to ensure the safety of these children remains the focus and remember “it’s Not Okay’ for children to be exposed to violence in the home.