Safe Spaces for Vulnerable Children
Rising cases of child abuse, child marriage, and the lack of adequate child protection mechanisms inspired the Sisters of the Good Shepherd to take action. They developed strong child protection policies at the organisational level and launched an initiative to create “Child-Friendly Communities” in Salem District, particularly in the Ayodhiyapattinam Block.
The prevalence of child marriage and abuse in its various forms remains high in these areas, demanding a multi-dimensional approach to safeguard children and adolescents.
As part of this initiative:
- Children from lower socio-economic backgrounds in Grades 6, 7, and 8 are brought together in Children’s Parliaments, where they learn responsibility, leadership, and the values needed to build a healthy, progressive, and dynamic society.
- Adolescent girls and boys in Grades 9 to 12, from 20 of the most disadvantaged villages, are supported to access their rights to quality education, holistic development, and protection from abuse. They are also encouraged to make age-appropriate decisions with confidence.
- To strengthen these efforts, child-friendly villages are fostered through awareness campaigns and advocacy activities. Government departments and officials have been drawn to the initiative, pledging their support for the promotion of the rights of children and adolescents—especially those from Dalit and other marginalized communities.