Bermuda Parent Magazine believes that child sexual abuse is preventable and that we can have a society where children are free from sexual abuse and exploitation.

The purpose of this petition is to safeguard children and young people from sexual abuse by preventing it and responding to it.

We want the Government, the Opposition, law makers and policy makers to act now to create a sex offenders registry that is accessible to the public and to make it mandatory that ALL establishments that work with children and young people be trained and certified in sexual abuse prevention.

We are asking for all establishments who work with children to be certified because training brings about a culture of awareness. It provides those in a position of authority to have skills and create safer environments. It makes adults more willing to intervene when unsafe behaviors are exhibited by adults with children. Prevention training creates an environment with much less opportunity for those who may offend.

In Bermuda, approximately 70% of the reported sex offences are committed upon children under the age of 18.

90% of all child sex offences are committed by those who are in a position of trust. This includes family, friends of the family, teachers, coaches, etc. It would be someone you trust, the person you would not suspect.

It is our responsibility as adults to protect our children from sexual abuse and exploitation.

By signing this petition you are agreeing that the sexual offenders registry should be accessible to all and that all establishments who work with children and young people should be trained and certificated in sexual abuse prevention.