Child Protection in Jamaica: Insights from the Safety & Security Live Forum

Jamaica, it takes all of us to protect our children! The latest Safety and Security Live Forum, hosted by Serenity Resource Connector, tackled some of the most urgent child protection issues facing our communities today. Experts from the Centre for Investigation of Sexual Offences & Child Abuse (CISOCA), Anti-Trafficking in Persons (Vice Squad) CTOC, Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), and Clarendon Health Department, provided invaluable insights into child protection in Jamaica, child abuse prevention, human trafficking awareness, and community responsibility.

If you missed it, watch the replay here: YouTube Live Replay.

Understanding the Threat: Child Protection in Jamaica & the Rise of Exploitation

Jamaican children are facing increasing risks of sexual abuse, trafficking, and exploitation. According to Inspector Florene Clarke from CISOCA, sexual offences—especially those involving minors—remain one of the most reported crimes. Detective Inspector Kemisha Gordon (CTOC) highlighted that over 65% of identified trafficking victims in Jamaica are children.

Warning Signs of Child Exploitation & Trafficking

Would you recognise the warning signs? Trafficking and abuse often happen in plain sight but go unnoticed. Here’s what to look for:

Unexplained expensive gifts (phones, jewellery, clothing) beyond a child’s means.
Withdrawn behaviour or fearfulness around certain individuals.
Sudden changes in school attendance or disappearing for periods of time.
Older ‘friends’ or ‘mentors’ who appear overly involved in the child’s life.
Tattoos or branding, especially of names or symbols linked to an adult.
Controlled communication (someone always supervising their phone calls).
Signs of physical abuse—bruises, injuries, or malnourishment.

If you suspect a child is being abused or trafficked, report it immediately! Call 211, 311, or 811.

Role of CPFSA in Child Protection

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) plays a crucial role in safeguarding Jamaica’s children. Their interventions include:

Rescue & Placement – Removing children from unsafe environments and placing them in foster care or residential childcare facilities.
Counselling & Trauma Support – Providing psychological services, including therapy for victims of abuse.
Legal Assistance – Working with law enforcement and the courts to ensure legal protection and prosecute offenders.
Community Outreach & Education – Conducting seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns to prevent child abuse and exploitation.

If you know a child who may be at risk, contact CPFSA’s Child Protection Hotline: 876-676-6360.

Psychological Impact & Support for Victims

Abused and trafficked children often suffer from long-term emotional and psychological distress. Some common effects include:

Anxiety, guilt, and shame
Withdrawal from social interactions
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Thoughts of suicide and self-harm

Support Services Available

Child Guidance Services at the Clarendon Health Department
Referrals to CPFSA & Victim Services Division
Counselling & Therapy – Play therapy, individual counselling, and support groups

Creating safe spaces for children to speak openly is essential for their recovery. If you or someone you know needs support, don’t hesitate to seek help.

The Role of the Community in Strengthening Child Protection in Jamaica

Protecting our children is a shared responsibility. We must move away from the “mind yuh own business” mentality and actively support vulnerable children in our communities. Detective Inspector Kemisha Gordon (CTOC) stressed the need for early intervention and community involvement.

What Can You Do?

✅ Educate children about body autonomy and personal safety.

✅ Encourage open conversations—make children feel safe reporting abuse.

✅ Strengthen community ties—support police youth clubs, churches, and schools.

✅ Stay vigilant—watch for warning signs and report suspicious activity.

✅ Support organisations like CPFSA that provide shelter, counselling, and legal assistance to victims.

💡 Your voice matters! Speak up, report abuse, and protect Jamaica’s future.

Key Resources & Contact Information for Child Protection in Jamaica

📞 CPFSA Child Protection Hotline: 876-676-6360

📞 Jamaica Anti-Trafficking Unit: 876-967-1389

📞 Police Hotlines: 211 | 311 | 811

Acknowledging Our Partners & Sponsor

A special thank you to our partners for making this forum possible:

JCF Area 3 Police, CISOCA and CTOC – Committed to safeguarding our communities.
Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) – Providing essential child welfare services.
Clarendon Health Department – Supporting the psychological well-being of victims.
National Self-Serve Wholesale – Proud sponsor, helping us create safe spaces for critical conversations.

🔄 Share this blog! Let’s raise awareness and keep our children safe.

✍️ What are your thoughts? Comment below and let us know how we can work together to build a safer Jamaica.