By a Redress Scheme Practitioner and Advocate for Survivors of Historic Child Abuse 

Child Protection Week is more than a calendar event; it’s a collective moment to pause, reflect, and recommit to safeguarding our children. For those of us who have spent years responding to historic child abuse and working survivors of abuse, this week carries a profound weight. It is a reminder of the pain endured, the courage shown, and the long road still ahead. 

I’ve sat across from survivors whose lives were irrevocably altered by abuse that should never have happened. I’ve listened to stories that were buried for decades, often dismissed or disbelieved. And I’ve worked within systems designed to offer redress: financial compensation, apologies, and recognition of harm. These systems, while imperfect, have provided many survivors with some sense of justice and validation. But they are only one part of a much larger picture. 

Are We Doing Enough? 

The truth is that child safeguarding is not a destination; it’s an ongoing journey. We’ve made progress. Mandatory reporting laws have strengthened. Institutions are more accountable. Public awareness has grown. But safeguarding is never done. 

I remain cautiously optimistic. Optimistic because I’ve seen survivors become advocates, turning their pain into purpose. Optimistic because younger generations are more empowered to speak out. Optimistic because governments and institutions are listening, albeit in some cases, belatedly. 

Yet, I am also realistic. The scars of abuse don’t fade easily. Many survivors still struggle to access support. And new forms of harm, online exploitation, coercive control, continue to emerge, demanding new responses. 

Looking Forward 

Child Protection Week should inspire action – not just to protect children today but also to recognise that the impact of abuse can be lifelong. We need trauma-informed, aged and community care services, education, better mental health services, and a justice system that maximises the opportunities for justice to be served.

To those working in child protection and safeguarding: your role is vital. To survivors: your voice matters. And to society at large: protecting children is not someone else’s job, it’s everyone’s responsibility. We need to listen to children, believe them, and act swiftly. 

As someone who has walked alongside survivors and witnessed both the failures and the triumphs of our systems, I believe that change is possible. Not perfect, not easy, but possible. And that belief is what keeps me going.