Government Prioritises Child Safety in Landmark Week

The Department of Children & Family Services has concluded its first-ever Child Safeguarding Symposium as part of Child Safeguarding Week (17–21 November 2025), marking a coordinated, government-wide effort to strengthen child protection systems, improve early intervention, and prioritise safeguarding as a shared national responsibility.

Led by the DCFS in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development & Innovation, the initiative supports the Government’s Strategic Policy Statement and Broad Outcomes in Health & Social Development, Public Safety, Good Governance, and Strengthening Communities. The event was attended by the Acting Governor Franz Manderson, and the Hon. Premier André Ebanks, who both delivered remarks, further highlighting that child safeguarding is a government-wide priority and a national commitment at the highest levels of leadership.

The week also aligned with three key international observances: Nov 18: Day for the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse, Nov 19: World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse, and Nov 20: World Children’s Day, tying in to Cayman’s commitment to global best standards in promoting child safety and wellbeing.

School Engagement & Prevention

Throughout the week, DCFS teams delivered safeguarding presentations across public and private schools, empowering students with knowledge of their rights, personal safety, trusted adults, and how to speak up. Students also participated in a national Logo Design Competition reflecting the theme “Every Child Safe, Every Voice Heard,” and schools joined in Dress in Blue Day to raise awareness across campuses.

“Safeguarding does not end with this week — it must continue with each of us,” said Paulinda Mendoza-Williams, Director of DCFS. “Protecting children requires action from every corner of our community: parents, teachers, neighbours, faith groups, professionals, and every agency represented here today. If we remain committed and work together, Cayman can become a place where every child is safe, supported, and given the chance to thrive.”

National Symposium Brings Candid, Necessary Dialogue

Friday’s National Child Safeguarding Symposium at Hotel Indigo brought together more than 150 representatives from DCFS, MASH, RCIPS, the Judiciary, the Attorney General’s Chambers, education, healthcare, nonprofits, and community partners. A wide spectrum of safeguarding expertise was represented — including psychologists, social work leaders, the Chief Magistrate, members of the Bar Association, prosecutors, and senior law enforcement — demonstrating the importance of a multi-agency approach.

Hon. Isaac Rankine, Minister for Social Development & Innovation, and Youth Sports, Culture & Heritage shared, “Safeguarding our children requires all of us — government, schools, service providers, parents, and the wider community — working together consistently and intentionally. We invite every stakeholder to continue partnering with us to strengthen protection in every area of a child’s life — in safe households, safe communities, and even in the digital space. Prevention is key, and it begins with a holistic, united approach that keeps the best interests of our children at the centre.”

Two panel discussions explored core safeguarding themes:

Panel 1 – Breaking the Cycle of Abuse

Moderator: Jodian McLeod (DCFS)
Panelists: Dr. Stephanie Schirn, Dr. Shion O’Connor, and Mrs. Felicia Robinson

Panel 2 – The Role of the Judiciary & Law Enforcement in Safeguarding

Moderator: Ms. Karelle DaCosta (DCFS)
Panelists: Hon. Angelyn Hernandez, Mrs. Heather Walker, Mr. Richard Barton, Mr. Simon Davis, Mr. Robert Atkin

Attendees described the sessions as “lively,” “candid,” and “constructive.”

Keynote Emphasises Regional Commitment

The Symposium also welcomed keynote speaker Mrs. Diahann Gordon Harrison, Jamaica’s Children’s Advocate and National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, and former Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions. Her address reinforced the growing urgency of child protection across the Caribbean and highlighted the shared responsibility of governments, agencies, schools, families, and communities. Together, the keynote and panel discussions set a powerful tone for the day — one of honesty, urgency, and shared responsibility

This inaugural Symposium set the foundation for an annual national observance dedicated to strengthening child safeguarding across the Cayman Islands. The Ministry and DCFS extend sincere thanks to every presenter, panellist, agency partner, school representative, frontline worker, and attendee whose contributions made this inaugural Child Safeguarding Symposium both meaningful and impactful. This collective effort demonstrates what is possible when the Cayman Islands unites around the shared commitment to protect its children.