Webster-Roy saddened by child suicides

“We must ensure that our children have access to school counsellors, psychologists and social workers in order to prevent future incidents,” she said.

Webster-Roy made the comments against the background of a 13-year-old schoolgirl of Tableland who was found hanging from the doorway of her home on Sunday and a 14- year old schoolboy of Arouca who was also found hanging at his home on Friday.

Noting in a release that she was “deeply saddened” by the reports, Webster-Roy said, “Such troubling events are of great concern to the ministry, stakeholders in child development and certainly to parents and families everywhere.” The reports, she said, highlight the need for even closer attention to be paid to children, who may be struggling in silence.

Calling for the creation of an environment of open dialogue for children, she said childhood should not be one of burden but it should be filled with love, happiness and a sure and certain hope for a bright future.

Adults were aware of the challenges of life and the struggles to cope, she said, so “we can therefore only imagine how much more amplified challenges are to children.” To help children and youths who may be feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with challenges, she advised they talk to someone they can trust about the way they feel.

“Call for help if you feel helpless or hopeless.

Surround yourself with positive and caring people.

Visit your school counsellor,” she advised.

It was important to remember, she said, that people may dial 800-SAVE or 800-4321 hotline anytime to talk to someone.

They may also go to Childline at www.

childlinett.org for more information on how to access the right support.