Malta Launches Preventive Helpline For Child Sexual Abuse Concerns

Malta has launched a new confidential helpline aimed at helping prevent the sexual abuse and exploitation of children before it happens.

Named ‘Stop It Now! Malta’, the service is operated by the Directorate for Child Protection and forms part of wider efforts to strengthen child safeguarding through education, support and early intervention.

The helpline, 9905 9414, is available Monday to Friday between 9am and 1pm and is designed for adults aged 18 and over who may be concerned about their own thoughts or behaviour towards minors, including online behaviour. Calls can also be made anonymously.

The service is also open to people currently under investigation for child sexual abuse offences, as well as their family members, and anyone who is concerned about the behaviour of someone else.

Social Policy and Family Minister Michael Falzon said prevention is essential, stressing that early intervention can help stop abuse before it occurs and prevent lifelong harm to children.

The initiative was developed in collaboration with Stop It Now! UK & Ireland, which has been operating for more than 20 years.

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Charlene Galea

Lovin Malta’s Content Manager, Charlene is a massive Swiftie obsessed with animals, scrolling and travelling. If she’s in the country for more than a day, you can find her reading on @onlyforthebooks