Increase in children seen loitering the streets in Suva and selling to earn income for their family

There is an increase in the number of young children loitering on the streets in Suva and also those who are selling to earn income for their family.

Many children have been seen in the middle of the night.

Some of the children we have spoken to outside major shopping complexes say they are selling to help their families.

When asked about how these children and their families can be assisted, Director of Social Welfare Rupeni Fatiaki says they have their social protection programs.

He says they have found out that some of these families are already being assisted by the Ministry.

Fatiaki adds when cases are brought to them, they assess and assist the families.

He says they are put in the system so they can get a monthly allowance. Fatiaki adds they don’t only look at their background but also their need.

He admits that in some cases they have discovered there is neglect and abuse.

The Director of Social Welfare says in those cases, they remove the child because they have the power to do so and place them under the care of the State.

He adds this is the immediate step they take in most cases.

Fatiaki further says in situations where children cannot be placed back with families, they have worked with NGOs and faith-based organisations who are providing temporary shelter for some of the children.