The Child Wellbeing Centre is currently assisting 25 boys, as stated by Lynda Tabuya, the Minister of Women, Children and Social Protection. The centre collaborates with Inspire Pacific, a non-governmental organization that has developed a rehabilitation program in Namosi aimed at helping boys move away from street life.
Minister Tabuya highlighted the program’s goals, which include changing the boys’ mindsets through counseling and promoting healthier social interactions. She emphasized the importance of helping the boys replace their previous negative friendships with positive connections. This initiative will also offer them opportunities for training and education, including vocational activities on a farm.
A key aspect of the center’s mission is the reintegration of these boys back into their families. The program also addresses issues related to substance abuse, in partnership with St Giles Hospital and the Stress Management Board at CWM Hospital.
Recognizing the urgent need for additional resources, Ms. Tabuya acknowledged the necessity for a dedicated Child Drug Rehabilitation Centre. This facility would focus primarily on the clinical aspects of detoxification before boys participate in rehabilitation programs. Proposals from international drug rehabilitation centres are currently being collected to support this effort, which will be presented to the Cabinet following discussions with the Ministry of Health and potential donors.
In her remarks, Ms. Tabuya pointed out the growing drug crisis evident in the continual arrests made by police, indicating that substance abuse is a significant issue in the community. However, she stressed that turning to drugs for stress relief is not a healthy solution, urging parents and guardians to seek better coping mechanisms.
In summary, the Child Wellbeing Centre represents a hopeful initiative aimed at transforming the lives of vulnerable boys through comprehensive support systems that encompass education, community building, and family reintegration. By addressing both the psychological and social aspects of rehabilitation, this program holds promise for a brighter future for these youths.
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