By: Belt Drive Betty
Here in Canada, we have several motorcycle organizations that work to prevent child abuse or to support kids who are experiencing child abuse. Many, like Guardians of the Children, help kids if they must go to court. Others like BACA and UBAKA offer a variety of support from counselling to family support. A few of the organizations that many motorcyclists support and raise money for are Little Warriors and their Be Brave Ranch to help kids heal and the Women’s Shelters of Canada.
According to one of the oldest children’s charities in the world the NSPCC in England and Wales (www.nspcc.org.uk) there are some signs to look out for regarding abuse that are common signs that there may be something concerning happening in a child’s life and these include:
- Unemplained changes in behavior or personality;
- Becoming withdrawn;
- Seeming anxious;
- Becoming uncharacteristically aggressive;
- Lacks social skills and has few friends, if any;
- Poor bond or relationship with a parent;
- Knowledge of adult issues inappropriate for their age;
- Running away or going missing; and
- Always choosing to wear clothes which cover their body.
As they warn “These signs do not necessarily mean that a child is being abused, there could be other things happening in their life which are affecting their behavior – but we can help you to assess the situation. You may also notice some concerning behavior from adults who you know have children in their care, which makes you concerned for the child/children’s safety and wellbeing.”
Being sensitive to changes that happen, asking questions, letting them know you are there for them and knowing what resources are available in your community and region may save a childhood.
Child abuse is a universal problem and something that everyone should take a stand against. I am proud to see our riders step up for children in need.
