A protective community begins with shared responsibility
A child’s protective environment begins with the people around them: caregivers, neighbours, teachers and local services. Protecting children from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation requires these groups to work together. Children’s own views also matter and should inform protection work in ways appropriate to their age and development.
Community members can recognise local concerns and help children reach appropriate services. Their role is a bridge to qualified support, complementing the responsibilities of government and professional service providers.
Building local knowledge and links to services
CADEF’s community-based programme works with children, caregivers and local groups to strengthen their knowledge of protection risks and appropriate support. In 2022, engagement with Social Affairs, local councils and non-governmental actors focused on connecting community structures with formal services.
Community child protection training, 2022.
Through community child protection groups, youth clubs and committees, CADEF supports local awareness, prevention and referral. Training is one part of this work; clear roles and continued links with qualified services are essential to putting that knowledge into practice.
Connecting protection with wider support
The programme approach links child protection with psychosocial support, livelihoods and education for children affected by conflict, including unaccompanied and separated children.
For children affected by conflict, protection concerns may sit alongside disrupted learning, separation from caregivers and wider family needs. Connecting protection with education, psychosocial support and livelihoods offers a coordinated programme approach. CADEF prioritises clear community roles and links to qualified services so local action can connect with appropriate support.
Investing in community protection
Partnerships can help sustain training, community participation and referral links. Explore the programme results and photographs to understand this approach.
Community child protection results and learning · Project photo gallery