Rights group calls for support for displaced Coopers Pen children ahead of new school term
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Children’s rights group, Fi We Children Foundation, is calling for the Government to ensure that children affected by the recent demolition of homes in Coopers Pen, Trelawny, are able to attend school when the new academic term begins on September 7.
The organisation says this is a matter that should be taken on by the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, the Ministry of Education and Youth, the Ministry of Social Security, and other relevant authorities.
It says it is deeply concerned by reports from parents that some children may be unable to return to school until January because their families are facing significant uncertainty following the demolitions.
“The disruption to housing and family stability cannot be allowed to become an interruption to a child’s education,” said the foundation in a statement on Wednesday.
“The right to education is a fundamental right, and every effort must be made to ensure that affected children can access school without unnecessary delay,” it added.
It is therefore urging the immediate deployment of social workers and other relevant professionals to the affected community to assess the situation, identify vulnerable children and coordinate appropriate support for families.
The foundation is also calling for educational relief, including assistance with uniforms, school supplies, housing, transportation and other essential needs where required.
It further wants the Government to engage directly with affected children and their families, while ensuring that their views and best interests are considered in any response.
With the start of the school term only days away, the foundation says there is no justification for waiting until January to address the children’s access to education.
It is urging the relevant agencies to act immediately to ensure that no child in Coopers Pen is left behind.
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