Child abuse and neglect cases are increasing in Antigua and Barbuda, leading to more children being placed in foster care.

The issue was discussed during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the Cabinet reviewed troubling figures presented by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation.

According to Merchant, officials reported more than 50 weekly interventions involving abused or neglected children. As a result, Cabinet expressed serious concern about the growing social challenges affecting families across the country.

“The minister also reported that there has been an increase in the number of children who are in foster care,” Merchant explained.

Moreover, officials said some parents are becoming younger and may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities of raising children. Merchant added that some women are also raising several children alone, creating added pressure on households.

Consequently, some families struggle with neglect and other social difficulties. Merchant said the weekly reports raised alarm among Cabinet members.

“The weekly reports are cause for serious concern by the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda,” he stated.

In response, the Cabinet approved an immediate EC$500,000 contribution toward the development of a new National Safe Haven. The facility will support vulnerable women and children facing abuse, neglect, and other hardships.

Officials said the Safe Haven will provide emergency protection, counselling, trauma care, and reintegration support. In addition, the center will help individuals rebuild stability after difficult situations.

The facility will be located near the Boys’ Training School. Furthermore, it will operate under the joint leadership of the Family and Social Services Division and the Directorate of Gender Affairs.

Meanwhile, the government hopes the initiative will strengthen support systems for vulnerable families while improving protection for children and women in crisis.

Officials also believe the Safe Haven will provide longer-term assistance beyond emergency care. Therefore, affected individuals will have access to continued support and recovery services.

Overall, the growing number of foster care cases has highlighted wider social challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda. However, the government says the new initiative represents an important step toward protecting vulnerable citizens and improving family support services nationwide.