Carers of kids told they can step in

THE Department of Child Safety says laws do not prevent carers from intervening when a child in care is at risk, despite a Townsville youth worker saying their hands are tied in tough situations.

The response comes after a frustrated youth worker spoke to the Townsville Bulletin about the reality of fake sex assault claims, violent attacks and daily threats by teenagers in care.

She said carers could not physically touch a child, lock doors on the care house or defend themselves in terrifying attacks.

The youth worker was frustrated with some of the laws and said that carers always had the child’s best interests at heart.

Despite this, a spokeswoman from the department said carers had the authority.

“Queensland’s child protection legislation and policy does not prevent anyone caring for a child from appropriately intervening, particularly when children may be at risk or displaying unsafe behaviour,” they said.

The spokeswoman said carers’ primary role was to drive kids to school, provide support services, cook meals and support them emotionally.

She said the safety and wellbeing of all children in care was a key priority for the government.

“The government recognises the importance of having suitably qualified staff to support the young people in residential care and all residential care staff need to hold or be working towards a recognised relevant qualification,” she said.

The spokeswoman said any violence against a carer was not tolerated and always reported to police.