CISOCA Leads Initiative Addressing Child Sexual Offenses through Parenting Seminar

The St. Thomas chapter of the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) collaborated with various agencies to host a Parenting Seminar aimed at addressing the rising cases of child sexual offenses, many occurring at home. The workshop emphasized parental roles, signs of abuse, and the importance of reporting offenses committed against children. With a positive response from over 40 attendees, plans are in place to extend this initiative across the parish and stage a follow-up seminar in February 2024. This effort aligns with the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence observed by the Jamaica Constabulary Force from November 25 to December 10.

Read the release below:

ST THOMAS CISOCA HOSTS PARENTING WORKSHOP
December 14, 2023- Over the years, the police have seen a steady increase in the rate of sexual
offences against children in the parish, and a significant number of these offences occurred in the
home. In response to this phenomenon, the St. Thomas chapter of the Centre for the Investigation
of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) partnered with several agencies to host the first
Parenting Seminar on Tuesday, December 5.
In collaboration with the Victim Resources Division, Restorative Justice, Child Protection and
Family Services Agency (CPFSA), Child Diversion Unit, and Domestic Violence Unit, the
sensitization workshop was held under the theme ‘Our Children,Their Future,Let Us Embrace
Them’ and had over 40 parents in attendance.
The attendees were treated to a myriad of presentations that highlighted the negative impacts of
child abuse and the offences being committed against and by their children. The presenters also
used the opportunity to remind parents of their roles and responsibilities, signs, phrases, and
behaviours to be cognizant of at home, among other things.
An increased awareness of the possible implications of failing to report when offences are
committed by family members against children was also on the day’s agenda.
The organisers were happy to see the reception to the knowledge being imparted and the feedback
exceeded their expectation. The intent is to extend their reach to as many parents and household as
possisble and the aim is to host a worshop at all nine stations in the parish.

The second staging is slated to be held in the Golden Grove/Bath area in February 2024.
The initiative also coincides with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) commemoration of the
global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This runs from November 25,which
is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, until December 10 which is celebrated as Human Rights Day.