This Directorate’s key services areas are child welfare and child protection in the home, child custody, alternative care, access mediation, investigating and holding accountable any offending member of the family, protection of persons from harmful traditional practices, and public education and awareness raising around family welfare issues.
Working with other MDAs, UN Agencies and development partners (including interim care centres/orphanages, FSU and Legal Aid SL) to safeguard and support children and families, particularly those who are vulnerable.
They assess situations, provide services and offer support to ensure children’s welfare, which can include providing extra help, investigating concerns of harm, and, as a last resort, placing children in care.
We facilitate referrals to services including safe accommodation for victims of domestic violence and their children who are at risk of harm.
Offering psychosocial support through counselling and other therapies/interventions.
Facilitating legal advice and support to individuals facing family-related legal issues.
Implementing programmes to help survivors of domestic violence gain financial independence through training and employment opportunities.
Engaging with communities to raise awareness about family welfare issues and available support services.
Contributing to the development of laws, policies, and programmes that promote family well-being.
Facilitating family tracing and reunification.
Family mediation.
Facilitating alternative care arrangements for vulnerable children.
Working with children in the justice system.
Provide services to children in the justice system.
Facilitate services to children in remand homes and approved schools.
Onward referral to appropriate support agencies/service providers