27th July 2011

Mandatory reporting of child abuse needs careful consideration

The education sector union NZEI Te Riu Roa says a system of mandatory reporting of child abuse could give children more protection but there are some complex issues which would require careful consideration.

The just-released Green Paper on Vulnerable Children proposes mandatory reporting of child abuse by professionals such as teachers and greater information-sharing.

NZEI Immediate Past President Frances Nelson says teachers already take the reporting of child abuse very seriously.

“We already have clear processes to follow when there is evidence of abuse or abuse is suspected, but every case is different and requires a different response.”

“Any move to mandatory reporting would have to come with well-developed and defined boundaries so teachers could be very clear about exactly what they should be reporting on and what action they should be taking in each situation,” she says.

Having solid follow up systems is also important and schools would want solid assurances that any concerns or reports were being taken seriously and wouldn’t be ignored.

Frances Nelson says “it’s all about protecting children and keeping them safe. Mandatory reporting is sound in principle but there would be a number of complex issues to work through to get the system right.”

NZEI says teachers and schools should use the Green Paper’s consultation questions to make their views on mandatory reporting of child abuse known.

ENDS

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