KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is working on finalising and promoting its Child Interaction Policy and Procedure (CIPP), which will serve as a guide to the police in treating with children in their care.

This was disclosed by Acting Director, Crime Prevention and Community Safety in the Ministry of National Security, Keisha Wright, at a ‘Youth for Peace Rally’ staged by the Houses of Parliament at The Knutsford Court Hotel yesterday.

 “(They) have actually started the implementation in some divisions. We have (also) developed pictures for the police officers to assess victims of child sexual abuse,” Wright said.

The CIPP seeks to foster a child-friendly environment within the JCF to safeguard the rights of the child; to strengthen collaboration with governmental and non-governmental agencies; and to treat all children in accordance with the JCF’s legal and ethical obligations

Wright also informed that the ministry is looking at ways to involve disenfranchised youth in a mentorship programme.

 “For our mentorship programme, which we are going to be redesigning with our partners… we intend to integrate these young boys in a manner that will allow them to get the support that they need,” she said.

The Youth for Peace Rally was held as part of activities marking Commonwealth Day under the theme ‘A Peace-building Commonwealth’.

Commonwealth Day is celebrated across the Commonwealth by young people, schools, communities and civil society organisations on the second Monday in March every year.

It provides an opportunity to promote understanding on global issues, international cooperation and the work of Commonwealth organisations.