3.8 Summary

• Violence and abuse towards children is widespread but it is a fundamental right for children to be protected from violence and abuse.
• For health workers to be effective in contributing to the protection of children you need to be aware of the risk factors, the signs and the effects of violence and abuse.
• It is important that children are listened to and their views are taken into consideration in finding a solution.
• It is vital to know how to report concerns you have about children and know the system for reporting.