A child who reports that he/she is being abused should be:

• believed...children rarely make up stories of abuse
• reassured that he/she is not at fault
• given a promise that he/she will be protected from further abuse
• taken to the doctor
  

  When someone is sexually abused by a family member, it is called "incest". This form of sexual abuse is particularly traumatic because it breaks the trust a child has placed in someone who is normally caring and nurturing.
  
  Sometimes parents, and especially mothers, do not want to believe that their child has been molested, particularly when it is someone, sometimes the breadwinner, who lives in the same house or nearby.
  
  NEVER blame your child. Sexual abuse is never the child's fault. PLEASE believe your child. Not only is it against the law to keep such information to yourself, but you may be sacrificing your child's physical and emotional health if you do not seek help. 
       
  If you suspect or know of a child who is being abused, it is imperative that you make a  report to your local Crisis Centre, Social Services Department or the Police.
  
  In the Bahamas, call the Crisis Centre at 328-0922 or the Child Abuse Hotline on 322-2763

Call The Crisis Centre on 328-0922 for support