Support Village Child Protection/Development Committees (VCP/DC)

Village Child Protection and Development Committees (VCDCs) in Sri Lanka are community-based groups that focus on the protection and development of children at the village level. These committees play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of children by addressing issues such as child rights, protection, and development. 

We are currently working with some of the VCDCs in our working areas collaborating with Child Rights Promoting Officers (CRPOs) and Div.CDCs. 

Key Functions of VCDCs:​

1. Linkage with State Child Protection Mechanisms: VCDCs coordinate with government and non-governmental organizations to ensure a holistic approach to child protection and development. This is the community (grassroot) level structure from the National level according to the National Child Protection Mechanism.
2. Child Rights Monitoring: They monitor and ensure that children's rights are respected and protected within the community.
3. Community Mobilization: VCDCs work to mobilize the community to participate in child protection and development activities.
4. Case Management: They actively support and coordinate cases of child abuse, neglect, and other issues affecting children, providing support and intervention when needed with the divisional levels (Divisional Child Development Committees).
5. Capacity Building: They organize and sometimes provide training/awareness and support to community members to enhance their ability to protect and develop children with support from the local stakeholders including NGOs working in the area. 
6. Child Participation: VCDCs encourage children to participate in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard.

These committees are essential in creating a safe and supportive environment for children, promoting their rights, and fostering their overall development, however, the capacity building and continues support for the activities should be done.