Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) unveils new facilities in Port Vila and Santo
PORT VILA, MARCH 13: The Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) today officially launched two new child friendly spaces to support families and children engaging with justice services.
The purpose-built spaces in MJCS offices in Port Vila and Santo provide children with opportunities for structured play, learning, and creative expression.
In Port Vila, the child friendly space at the MJCS office, features a range of children’s items including toys, books and bean bags, and has been set up to promote inclusive services to children visiting the office as clients, and to provide a welcoming service to children of staff.
According to MJCS Acting Director General Arthur Faerua its availability will help to reduce stress and promote improved work-life balance. “Parents here at MJCS now know that their children are safe and entertained. That is a huge thing for the Ministry as it alleviates worry and allows employees to focus better on their work. We are already seeing how the space is leading to increased productivity and fewer absences. Being family friendly is one of the MJCS’s core values and it means a lot to us to be able to help our team members to balance their work and family responsibilities, and in turn we believe it is enhancing their job satisfaction and loyalty.”
Meanwhile, the child friendly space in the MJCS office in Santo has also been designed to be suitable for use by MJCS partners who require private and secure locations for child and family interviewing, such as the Vanuatu Police Force’s Family Protection Unit (FPU).
The two facilities have been supported by the Government of Australia who work in partnership with MJCS to improve the quality and reach of justice services for women, children and youth.
Each room has been designed to be positive, comfortable, and welcoming for children. And for FPU Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Mark Willie, child friendly spaces, like the two launched today, can help the VPF deliver improved outcomes for local communities. “We all recognise that children are a vulnerable group. And whether they are the victims, or alleged offenders of crime, our FPU officers need to ensure they are protected and supported. Having access to child friendly spaces enables us to have private and confidential settings where children can feel comfortable. Ultimately, this allows our officers to collect a higher standard of evidence which can improve our investigations.”
It is hoped the ongoing collaboration between the MJCS and VPF, including through a similar initiative planned for Malampa, will support the overall process for police, complainants and prosecutions to access justice. "We expect that victims of sexual and domestic violence will feel much more comfortable giving statements and outlining their traumatic experiences in the privacy of this type of venue. That is very important to us as it is critical the community has trust and confidence in the police when they report sensitive crimes. It is important that they know that we are here, and we can support them in a safe and secure way,” said Senior Sergeant Willie.
