The community has come together to spread awareness about the problem of abuse and the signs to look for.
In 2016 there were 1,033 confirmed cases of Child Abuse in Lubbock County. A number one Trauma nurse hopes to lower through education.
Belinda Waters explains where the Blue Ribbon campaign began. “A grandmother in 1989 had two grandchildren who suffered serious abuse at their parents hands. One of the grandchildren died and the other had critical injuries. So she tied a blue ribbon around her antenna so that people would ask what it was for. What does the blue stand for.”
Waters tells us some clues to think about when it comes to abuse and neglect are bruising, not meeting milestones, and being afraid of a caregiver, and shaken baby syndrome. If you see any of these symptoms you need to report it. She tells us, “if it is a critical injury to take the child immediately to the Emergency Room or call 9-1-1. If the injuries are not critical call CPS or get online and then CPS has 48 hours to follow up, but that Police and CPS are who you want to contact.”
The most vunerable victims are children ages six and under. Waters stresses that education can help prevent child abuse. She says, “to tell your friends and family and anyone you know. If you are stressed out you need help in caring for the child, you may think you don’t need any help but you do. If you think there is a child at risk you just have to realize it is preventable.”
If you see a child you are concerned is being abused or neglected you can contact CPS through their website www.txabusehotline.org or call the hotline number at 1-800-252-5400.
