Immediate and Long-term Support for Child Victims of Sexual Abuse

102 Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in cases where children have suffered prolonged sexual abuse (a) what immediate and long-term support, including mental health care, is provided to child victims; (b) what assistance is given to affected families and caregivers, especially where parents are absent; and (c) how the Ministry ensures continuity of care as these children grow older.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: For cases occurring within the domestic setting, the Ministry of Social and Family Development works with the Police, healthcare professionals and child protection case management agencies to ensure the child's immediate safety. We assess the child's and family's needs and, where necessary, put in place and monitor appropriate interventions, including trauma-informed support for the child and assistance for caregivers. Where parents are absent or unable to care for the child, we will also assess the caregiving arrangements and support needed.

For cases outside the domestic setting, the Police may, with the victim's consent, activate its victim care officers to provide psychological first aid and direct the child and family to appropriate professional or community services. While the Police can encourage them to take up such support, the Police cannot require them to do so.

In both situations, the nature and duration of therapeutic support depend on the child's evolving needs. Longer-term support may be provided where difficulties persist. The child and family can also return to appropriate services if concerns arise later.