The perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on child protective services in Saudi Arabia

TL;DR

This study explores how the COVID-19 pandemic affected child protective services in Saudi Arabia, highlighting increased violence against children and challenges in response systems.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the pandemic's impact on child protection in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for improved emergency preparedness and intersectoral collaboration.

Findings

Health sector professionals reported significant increases in violence against children during the pandemic.

Digital infrastructure and remote follow-up capabilities were found to be insufficient.

Family stress, financial hardship, and social isolation were identified as key risk factors for violence against children.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the child protective services (CPS) globally, resulting in increased risks of violence against children (VAC). This study aims to assess the perceived impact of COVID-19 on CPS operations by CPS professionals from health, social, law enforcement, and educational sectors in Saudi Arabia.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between September 2021 and June 2022 among 257 CPS professionals from health, social, law enforcement, and educational sectors in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire, developed with oversight by WHO, covered nine domains: violence trends, reporting and documentation, response and follow-up, legislation, resources, staff preparedness, prevention programs, knowledge, and challenges. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Cramér’s V tests, while qualitative data were examined thematically.

Health sector professionals more frequently reported marked increases in the number of reported VAC cases and their severity compared to non-health participants. The results have shown limited change in reporting systems, with the exception of a few newly introduced mechanisms. Staff training, crisis preparedness, and digital infrastructure were insufficient, with limited remote follow-up. Qualitative findings highlighted family stress, financial hardship, and social isolation as risk factors. Major challenges included reduced case accessibility, weak inter-agency coordination, and inadequate protective measures.

The study, conducted in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia, reveals the need to further develop some aspects of CPS emergency preparedness. Strengthening intersectoral collaboration, investing in digital tools, enhancing staff training, and promoting community awareness are essential to ensure the resilience of CPS during similar future situations.