There is a nightmare that many children in Trinidad and Tobago live out daily.In this nightmare, they are born into homes where their well-being is an afterthought. The world around them, through the glitz of social media and the lived...
There is a nightmare that many children in Trinidad and Tobago live out daily.
In this nightmare, they are born into homes where their well-being is an afterthought. The world around them, through the glitz of social media and the lived experiences of their peers, silently reveals a depressing truth—to be born into a family built on love, patience and care is a ruthless lottery only won by a rare few.
There is a nightmare that many children in Trinidad and Tobago live out daily.
In this nightmare, they are born into homes where their well-being is an afterthought. The world around them, through the glitz of social media and the lived experiences of their peers, silently reveals a depressing truth—to be born into a family built on love, patience and care is a ruthless lottery only won by a rare few.
Over the past five years, more than 11,000 children have reached out to Childline seeking support. Thousands have reported family and social challenges, abuse, health concerns, psychosocial difficulties, and high-risk behaviours such as self-harm and suicidal ideation.
This present reality should concern us all.
In T&T, we are witnessing the gradual unravelling of the family foundation. The consequences of this breakdown extend far beyond individual households, causing our communities to suffer, social problems to deepen, and most of all, our children to be left to navigate challenges they should never have to face alone.
Repairing this foundation requires intention and effort. It requires adults who are willing to listen, communicate, guide, and seek support when needed. It requires a collective commitment to creating safer homes and healthier environments where children can thrive.
Since 2001, Childline has stood alongside children and families, offering support, guidance and hope. We will continue that mission. However, protecting children cannot be the responsibility of child-serving organisations alone. It must be embraced by every parent, caregiver, neighbour, teacher, community leader and concerned citizen.
We must keep in our minds that the future of T&T will be shaped by the children we raise today. Whether they grow into healthy, resilient adults or continue to struggle under the weight of neglect, abuse and isolation depends on the personal choices we make now.
So the question remains: when the children of our nation cry out, will you listen?
Another FIFA World Cup competition is here. This is usually highly anticipated worldwide, and there is friendly rivalry among countries. Believe it that international meetings can be interrupted to announce results. It is reported that a priest was once sanctioned for wearing his team colours while presiding at Mass.
