Reports of Child Abuse and Neglect to National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline, and Follow-up Actions Taken

28 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) for each year in the past five years, how many cases of child abuse and child neglect have been reported to the National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline, respectively; and (b) what are the types of follow-up actions taken after a case is reported.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH) was launched in February 2021. It received about 2,200, 2,400 and 3,400 enquiries relating to the abuse and neglect of children in 2021, 2022 and 2023 respectively.

Upon receiving a report, NAVH would assess whether there are concerns of abuse or neglect. Cases involving such concerns would be referred to relevant agencies, such as the Family Service Centres and Child Protection Specialist Centres, or escalated to the Ministry of Social and Family Development's Child Protective Service for intervention, depending on the risk and severity.

For calls without concerns of abuse or neglect, NAVH provides advice and resources to help individuals seek the necessary support and assistance.