Battle on to keep kids safe from violence

Masterton two-year-old Caleb Skinnner, who was flown to Starship Hospital with life-threatening injuries after a family friend allegedly assaulted the child at his George st home.

HEARING a Wairarapa child is in hospital fighting for his life after a man known to the mother allegedly assaulted him leaves me dumbfounded.

As Lillybing, Nia Glassie, the Kahui twins and many other children were killed we as a society were outraged. In Rotorua Nia's death resulted in a group of professionals setting up a forum to insure those most at risk were kept an eye on or an action plan formulated to keep them safe.

But it seems our kids aren't safe at all. When are we going to stop this violence against our children?

In reality I believe it is the break-down of families we need to tackle to ensure our kids are safe. Let's think about this.

How many of these kids have been killed at the hands of men who have no biological connection to that child?

In many cases I'm sure the anger and resentment arises from jealousy.

These children are a reminder the woman they are with had a life before them.

Many blended families work perfectly well with the men showing love for their partner's children but when you have anger coupled with financial and relationship issues or dysfunction - who is going to wear it?

That poor innocent child who is demanding attention or just in front of you, whom you have no connection with, no doubt will be the first you lash out at.

There is no instruction manual given to us as we leave the hospital with our newborn but that love in our hearts isn't enough.

Some women don't want to rock the boat or are victims of abuse themselves but it is their job - the most important job in the world - to care and protect their children.

Above all else this should be our priority.

Sadly though some women can't see past their own needs and their children become invisible when it comes to violence.

As a community it is our job to speak up for the vulnerable whether it be a child we know or not.

Don't think about the consequences for you - think about the consequences for that child if you don't open your mouth. Let's stop this violence against our children.