Every year the caseload at the Zebra Child Protection Unit goes up and 2018 was no exception. Staff took on 834 child abuse cases last year — an increase of 22 per cent over 2017.
Most of those cases dealt with child sexual abuse.
Cheryl Diebel, chief executive officer of the Zebra centre, said while the numbers are alarming, it doesn’t necessarily mean there was more child abuse in Alberta.
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“We think it’s linked to the fact that we’re out in the public more often,” said Diebel.
“People are more aware of the signs of abuse and also more aware of where to call if they have issues.”
Diebel said most of the child abuse referrals come from RCMP, Edmonton police, Alberta Health Services and Alberta Children’s Services.
Watch below: Cheryl Diebel, the CEO of Edmonton’s Zebra Child Protection Centre, sat down with Global’s Kim Smith on Tuesday to talk about how her organization is seeing an increase in child abuse cases.
The Zebra centre is a safe place for abused children to tell their stories. It provides supports to children from Edmonton and communities north of Red Deer.
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Specialized forensic interviewers meet with children so they only have to tell their story once.
Last year, more caregivers were also provided support through the investigation and court process.
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Despite the progress in people reporting child abuse, Diebel wants everyone to know it is their duty.
“We want to ensure that people understand their need to report child abuse if they suspect it,” said Diebel.
“It’s not an option… We want an environment free from child abuse.”
If you suspect child abuse, please contact any of the following:
Edmonton Police Service Complaint Line: 780-423-4567
Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-387-5437 (KIDS)
Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477
Online Exploitation: cybertip.ca
Or your local police/RCMP detachment
If a child is in immediate danger, please dial 911.