“We Know Their Backs Are Against The Wall, But We’re Here To Help”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Last week, a fetus was found wrapped in plastic, floating in waters near an Ocean Club dock.

Although she couldn’t speak specifically to last week’s case, Chief Welfare Officer attached to the Child Protection Unit in the Department of Social Services, Andrea Newbold, says mothers who don’t want their babies have options.

Andrea Newbold – Chief Welfare Officer, Child Protection Unit

“The Department of Social Services has a unit that deals with adoptions and foster care. So, if you are pregnant and facing an unwanted pregnancy, and you don’t know what to do, we have those units where you can come. We are located at Prime Plaza, East Street South, and we provide counseling.”

So what happens if the department finds abandoned children?

Gabrielle Romer – Assistant Director, Department of Social Services

“Oftentimes, children in those situations are placed in protective care. We either shelter them at one of our residential care facilities or, if family members are willing to take them in, we place them with relatives because we believe children should be with their families.”

While unwanted births have dominated headlines, the department continues to grapple with other challenges.

Gabrielle Romer – Assistant Director, Department of Social Services

“Back in the day, we didn’t have many cases, but today, there are a lot of abusive children, and it’s very difficult.”

Andrea Newbold – Chief Welfare Officer, Child Protection Unit

“I know these mothers are in a position where their backs are against the wall, and they don’t know what to do. As a mother and a trained social worker, we provide counseling because we understand how difficult this is.”