A Singapore Government Agency Website
Understanding Violence & Abuse
You may be experiencing family violence and considering ending the marriage. Read on to understand more about violence and abuse, and what you can do to keep safe.
Child Abuse & Neglect
The Children and Young Persons Act (CYPA) defines a child as someone who is below 14 years of age and a young person as someone who is aged 14 years and above, but below 18 years old. Child abuse is any act committed by a parent or caregiver that ill-treats a child or a young person. Child abuse also includes a parent or caregiver knowingly permitting the child or young person to be ill-treated by another person. Child abuse may be in the form of physical abuse, emotional and psychological abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect.
For examples of child abuse, please refer to this brochure.
If you see any signs of abuse in someone you know or suspect a case of child abuse, you can seek help as reporting suspected child abuse is the first step in preventing or stopping the abuse. The case will be investigated to ensure the safety of the child.
If you are concerned about your own safety or your children’s safety, you may wish to seek help from the National Anti-Violence Helpline at 1800-777-0000.
If an incident of violence has just happened or if someone is in imminent danger, call 999, or go to your nearest Neighbourhood Police Post or Centre for help.
You may also wish to contact any of the following agencies:
Child Protective Services (CPS)
SLF Podium #01-01 to #01-09
512A Thomson Road
Singapore 298137
Mondays to Fridays, 9.30AM – 5.30PM and Saturdays, 8.30AM – 1PM
1800 777 0000 (National Anti-Violence Helpline)
Big Love Child Protection Specialist Centre (CPSC)
Agape Village #02-05/06
7 Lor 8 Toa Payoh
Singapore 319264
Mondays to Fridays 9.00AM – 6.00PM
6445 0400
HEART@Fei Yue Child Protection Specialist Centre (CPSC)
20 Lengkok Bahru #03-02
Singapore 159053
Mondays to Fridays 9.00AM – 6.00PM
6819 9170
Ang Mo Kio Branch
Block 211, Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, #01-1446 Singapore 560 211
Monday – Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm; 2.00pm – 6.00pm
6555 0390
Email: intake@pave.org.sg
Yishun Branch
Blk 305, Yishun Central, #01-175 Singapore 760305
Monday – Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm; 2.00pm – 6.00pm
6555 0390
Email: intake@pave.org.sg
If you use violence and would like to seek help…
It takes great courage to step up and admit that you need change. You are the only one who can take this first step to stop hurting your family, the people closest to you, and the people who love you.
People engage in abusive behaviours for different reasons. Click here for some support services that can work through these issues with you to better the situation.
Wai Kit’s Story
Wai Kit (aged 50) occupied himself with farming and community-building activities to help him cope with anxiety and negative feelings during the divorce.
Read MoreUnderstanding Violence & Abuse
