How do we define this domain?
Safety can be defined as "the extent to which a child is free from fear and secure from physical or psychosocial harm within their social and physical environments."[1] Children's environments, including their homes, schools, and communities, influence their feelings and experiences of safety.
Why is it important?
Children and youth who experience intense or extended periods of fear and insecurity are at greater risk for poor mental health, lower educational achievement, and worse overall health.[2] Additionally, child and youth perceptions of school and neighbourhood safety strongly influence their academic performance, social participation, and health.[2],[3]
There are four concepts within the Safety Domain:
How does this align with our Child and Youth Charters?
This domain aligns with several charter statements from the WDG Child and Youth Charters of Rights:
All children in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have a right to: (ii) Have basic needs met including nutritious food, a healthy environment and a safe and comfortable place to live; (iv) Safe places and time to play, and access to affordable recreation activities; (vii) Protection from neglect, abuse and exposure to family violence; (viii) Be accepted for who they are, and believe what they want without being discriminated against.
All youth in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have a right to: (iv) Affordable activities and programs, and safe places to hang out; (vii) Be and feel safe in our homes, schools, and communities; (viii) Be accepted for who we are and what we believe without being discriminated against.
[1] Centre for Disease Control. (2014). Essentials for childhood: Steps to create safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments. Atlanta, GA: Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/essentials_for_childhood_framework.pdf
[2] Milam, A.J., Furr-Holden, C.D.M., & Leaf, P.J. (2010). Perceived school and neighbourhood safety, neighbourhood violence, and academic achievement in urban school children. The Urban Review, 42(5); 458-67. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011866/
[3] Carver, A., Timperio A., & Crawford, D. (2008). Playing it safe: The influence of neighbourhood safety on children's physical activity - A review. Health & Place, 14; 217-27. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Alison_Carver/publication/6175796_Playing_it_Safe_The_Influence_of_Neighbourhood_Safety_on_Children's_Physical_Activity-A_Review/links/55179fc40cf2d70ee27869fc.pdf