Silent Cries: Child Abuse Trends in Alberta builds on the State of Child Wellbeing report, offering an in-depth analysis of child abuse trends in Alberta from 2017 to 2024.
Using national and provincial data, the report highlights that Alberta consistently reports higher rates of child abuse compared to the national average, with certain populations including Indigenous communities, sexual minorities, and individuals with disabilities facing disproportionate risks. Municipal-level analyses reveal that cities such as Lethbridge, Edmonton and Red Deer have particularly concerning rates of police-reported violent crimes against children.
The report underscores the importance of a centralized data repository to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of child abuse reporting, supporting more effective policy interventions and resource allocation. It also emphasizes the need for community-driven solutions, trauma-informed care, and culturally responsive support services, particularly for Indigenous communities and other vulnerable groups. Key recommendations include enhanced professional training, strengthened legal protections for children, and increased funding for victim support services and research. The report calls for a more integrated and evidence-based approach to child protection in Alberta, ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most.
Cpl Emma Leslie has over 16 years of policing experience with the RCMP. She has worked in Alberta, the Yukon and Prince Edward Island in a variety of environments including general duty policing and various plain clothes units. Cpl Leslie has been conducting child forensic interviews... Read More →
Cassandra has been a dedicated member of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC) since its inception, serving as the Director of Operations. With nearly a decade of experience in child advocacy, Cassandra has played a role in building and sustaining the Centre’s multidisciplinary... Read More →
Jones Adjei is a Sociology Instructor at Red Deer Polytechnic, with a focus on social demography and applied statistics. His research interests include immigrant settlement experiences, population health disparities, and child wellbeing. His research has been published in peer-reviewed... Read More →
Emile Johnson is a dedicated community leader and advocate with over 10 years of experience working to improve the lives of children, youth, and families across Alberta. He currently serves as the Director of Resiliency and Child Advocacy Research at Red Deer Polytechnic, where he... Read More →
Friday May 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT Gary W. Harris - Gym120 College Cir, Red Deer, AB T4N 0T7
