Failure to report child abuse could lead to charges – Minister Persaud

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, is warning civilians—particularly parents—that failing to report cases of child abuse and teenage pregnancy involving minors could result in criminal charges.

“Many times when we have cases of teenage pregnancy, parents have to understand they have a responsibility to report… anyone who is aware and they don’t report any case of child abuse… they are considered complicit and they can be charged under the law,” Dr. Persaud told reporters on Monday.

Addressing the ministry’s response to cases involving young mothers and minors, Dr. Persaud said the role of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is “very straightforward,” with the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) taking the lead in handling all matters involving children.

She explained that once a report is made—whether before or after a teenage mother is admitted to hospital—the agency intervenes to provide counselling and support to both the mother and child, while also working closely with their families.

Where abuse is suspected, investigations are conducted in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force.

“Once we are able to identify the perpetrator, the law takes over from there. The court system will be invoked because the file will go to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice,” she said.

Dr. Persaud also highlighted the importance of forensic interviews, which are conducted in a controlled and protective environment to minimise further trauma for child victims.

“So the child tells her story only once and then the law should take its course,” she explained.

Under Guyana’s laws, the age of consent is 16, and any sexual activity involving a child below that age is considered statutory rape.

Dr. Persaud further revealed that efforts have been ongoing since last year to strengthen referral pathways between agencies to ensure cases are handled more efficiently and in accordance with standard operating procedures.

“We are looking to have a referral pathway that is strengthened… so that when any issues arise there are specific stakeholders that must be involved, and they must follow our SOPs,” she said.

As part of these efforts, the ministry plans to expand training, public awareness campaigns, and community outreach programmes aimed at educating parents about their responsibilities.

“We are going to go out there aggressively to let people know that they have a duty to report. It is not enough to know about it and talk about it… reporting is critical in all of this,” Dr. Persaud said.