Child abuse Laws in Canada

Child abuse, whether it is physical or emotional, is taken very seriously in Canada. so members of the public in Ontario are legally obliged to report this kind of abuse to authorities.

This kind of abuse can happen in different forms. There are many different forms of violence that may happen. such as :

  • Physical
  • Sexual
  • Emotional

Abuse can also be omission, which is when parents or guardians don’t take care of the basic needs of the children who depend on them. there are a number of options you you can do if you suspect abuse is happening to a child. such as :

  • Call 9-1-1 , or local police emergency number
  • The Children’s Aid Society
  • Call a local crisis or help line. such as the Ontario Victim Support Line
  • Call Ontario Victim Services. they can help provide services such food, clothing and shelter
  • The Kids Help Phone can connect kids, teens and young adults, from any community in Canada

Child protection laws

There are various kinds of Laws to protect a child from abuse. such as :

  • Federal
  • Provincial and
  • Territorial Laws

These laws are called child protection laws . They are dealt with in various provincial Child, Youth and Family Services Acts. Some types of abuse are crimes and are listed in the Criminal Code which is a federal law that applies across Canada.

In Ontario, child protection is dealt with in third section of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act. Professionals working with children,  particularly have a duty to report abuse to authorities. if they do not , they can be fined up to $1,000. such as :

  • Teachers
  • Doctors
  • Nurses
  • Social workers
  • Sports coaches

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