Parents leaving Fiji for employment opportunities overseas while their children remain in the country, is an emerging concern being highlighted by the Substance Abuse Advisory Council.
Council Director Josua Naisele says they are now seeing situations where one parent, and in some cases both parents, take up employment opportunities overseas while their children remain in Fiji.
Naisele says this is another changing family situation, that needs attention when considering the wellbeing of children.
He says parental separation and divorce are already among the family issues affecting some children, while parents moving overseas for work is another situation they are now seeing.
Naisele says when parents leave the country for employment, it is important that children continue to receive proper care, guidance, attention and emotional support.
He says children need stability and people around them whom they trust and feel comfortable talking to about what they are going through.
Naisele says parents and guardians have an important responsibility to ensure children continue to feel loved, respected and supported even when their family circumstances change.
He says strong family connections are important because simply providing children with their material needs, does not necessarily mean all their emotional needs are being met.
Naisele says families need to understand what children are experiencing, and ensure they have someone they can turn to when they face difficulties.
He says maintaining a strong and supportive family environment remains important in helping children deal with changes at home, and the challenges they face as they grow up.
