JEDDAH: Recent studies released by the National Family Safety Program (NFSP) confirmed an increasing number of violence cases against children in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Social Affairs noted that these children, who do not enjoy a secure and suitable family environment, have the right to be supported and cared for by a foster family.

An official source at the ministry said that providing such alternatives are aimed at providing the social, psychological, health, and professional care for the children whose circumstances prevented them from growing up among their natural family members. This will ensure that they are soundly educated and compensated for the empathy and love they lost, especially those children who badly need very close care and attention.

“Any circumstances that have prevented a child, temporary or permanently, from enjoying the safe and secure family environment has the right for protection, help and shelter,” said the source.

The official source also said that if the child’s documents are missing or short, this will not hamper his right to enjoy the necessary protection and shelter.

He confirmed that it is necessary to arrange for the alternative environment to ensure the provision of a decent and good life for them, and that they get all their rights of good education, medical treatment, nutrition and care. Children who need care and the authorities cannot find or locate their parents, or even those children who social studies have proven they cannot be raised with their natural families, will benefit from the care, attention and support of the alternative or foster families.

During the process, the ministry will make sure that these children are not exploited, either financially, sexually, physically, or psychologically, abused, or neglected by their foster families.

He said: “The competent authority responsible for providing the alternative care will tell the children with unknown parents the facts about his life, in accordance with the applicable procedures at the Ministry of Social Affairs.”