Care for Hong Kong’s vulnerable children must go beyond government services

The problem of child maltreatment, including physical, sexual and psychological abuse as well as neglect, has become an important public health issue. Every year, between 4 per cent and 16 per cent of children are physically abused and about 10 per cent are neglected or psychologically abused in high-income countries. Given the well-documented effects of such abuse on a child’s health, social and behavioural development, society will pay a very high cost if it is not dealt with timely and effectively.

Hence, child protection is important. According to the latest figures from Hong Kong’s Social Work Department, there is a critical shortage of residential places for children in need, especially for those with a mental disability. There are 3,427 residential places for children with no disability, and 174 for those with a disability. Occupancy rates are 87 per cent and 98 per cent respectively.

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The situation is worse for children with intellectual disabilities. It takes, on average, 9.7 months to get a long-term place and they must leave when they reach 18. An emergency place can be arranged if there is a court protection order for desperate cases. However, only government social workers and law enforcement agencies can apply for one.

The well-being of the youngsters and families concerned is our primary concern. Sometimes, a tragedy such as suicide or a murder-suicide occurs when things become too much to bear for these families.

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So, there is an urgent need to increase the number of shelter spaces. At the same time, it is also vital to provide support to those families on the waiting list, to try to ease their pressure.