With approximately 2, 600 child abuse cases recorded this year thus far, neglect has been identified as the leading cause followed by physical abuse and then sexual abuse. This was revealed Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud on this week’s episode of the Starting Point Podcast.In a troubling revelation, Minister Persaud said the majority of perpetrators in these cases are mothers, followed by fathers and other individuals.“We would have over 2,800 reported cases, and 2,600-plus of those were found to be actual cases. Every one of those cases were investigated,” Minister Persaud said.Speaking about the ministry’s interventions, Dr. Persaud outlined several ongoing initiatives, including the Street Light Project which focuses removing and supporting children found on the streets begging or for other reasons.“We have picked up 30 children this year,” Dr. Persaud revealed.Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud designed the books in such a way as to help adults better explain to children issues of child abuse (Photo: Ministry of Human Services and Social Security)She explained that the ministry works with not only affected children but also their families through the Child Protection Agency and the Family Enhancement Services Unit. Of the 30 children taken off the streets this year, 50 per cent received direct welfare assistance, including help for their families to secure employment.But a worrying issue is recidivism – cases where children are found back on the streets despite interventions.“If you look at the number of children we have picked up, all of them have parents and families. Parents need to be more cognisant of where their children are and what they are doing,” Minister Persaud urged.To tackle the issue more effectively, the ministry is developing a rapid response team to work through the night, ensuring that children are not left vulnerable in unsafe environments. However, the minister acknowledged a severe shortage of child protection officers, which poses a significant challenge.Currently, over 350 children are in state care. Dr. Persaud explained that when a child is removed from an unsafe environment, a forensic interview is conducted in the presence of police, child protection officers, and a family representative.“The interview is done once, and the child’s voice is heard, except in cases where it’s a baby or toddler,” she said. The post Mothers emerge as main offenders in over 2,500 child abuse cases appeared first on News Room Guyana.