‘Stop it Now! Malta’ is a new helpline operated by the Child Protection Directorate, which will serve as a specialized tool to strengthen the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation. This service joins the ranks of other services that promote a proactive approach to child protection through education, support and early intervention.
Unlike other services, this preventive helpline 99059414, aims to welcome and prevent situations of abuse against minors. For now, this helpline will operate from Monday to Friday, between 9.00 am and 1.00 pm
These details were announced during a press conference addressed by the Minister for Social Policy and the Family, Michael Falzon, where he explained how this exercise is another means of how social workers are strengthening their outreach in order to prevent any type of abuse that may occur against minors.
“Prevention is crucial because we are still in time to provide direction so that at an early stage we can avoid abuse, which carries with it very negative consequences throughout the rest of their lives,” stated Minister Michael Falzon.
This helpline will also serve as guidance and support for that person to maintain control over their behavior, and is intended for any person who is 18 years of age or older. People who are concerned about thoughts of a sexual nature towards minors, which also includes online behavior, can resort to this service while also respecting their anonymity. The helpline is also aimed at individuals who are currently being investigated on charges of sexual abuse towards minors as well as their family and relatives. It can also be of help to those who have concerns about the behavior of another person.
FSWS CEO Alfred Grixti said that this helpline was launched to cater to certain realities such as sexual abuse and even reports related to pornographic material involving minors. He explained that ‘Stop it Now! Malta’ is designed in collaboration with ‘Stop it Now! Uk & Ireland’ which has been operating successfully for over 20 years and which has left a positive impact on those involved.
Photos: MSF/DOI
