AN ASSESSMENT ON THE CHILD AT RISK INTERVENTION MEASUSRES IN BARANGAY GULOD, NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Children’s well-being and safety remain critical concerns in communities facing socioeconomic hardships, environmental challenges, and limited access to basic services. Barangay Gulod in Novaliches, Quezon City, is one such community where children are exposed to various risks including poverty, hunger, poor education, child labor, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, that threaten their growth and future prospects. The study included 20 Social Workers/Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) members, 20 Barangay officials, and 10 parents, all selected using random sampling. This method ensured equal selection opportunities for participants, promoting an unbiased and representative sample. The researchers utilized this approach to comprehensively address the challenges faced in implementing the barangay justice system, allowing for a focused and systematic investigation. Respondents in Barangay Gulod, Novaliches, Quezon City, expressed strong approval of child-at-risk intervention programs. The Life Skills Recreational Mentor Training Program received the highest rating with a mean score of 3.54, followed closely by the Regular Responsible Parenting Workshop (3.46), Education and Vocational Support (3.48), and Counseling and Family Therapy (3.44), all rated as “Strongly Agree.” However, 88% of respondents identified poor communication and collaboration among stakeholders as the main challenge. To address this, the proposed action plan prioritizes Life Skills Training, particularly in problem-solving and conflict resolution supported by 82% of respondents as vital to improving program effectiveness. To improve the Child-at-Risk Intervention Program, the study recommends implementing stronger preventive measures for early risk detection, expanding community-based initiatives to ensure wider service accessibility, and enhancing family support through parenting workshops and therapeutic services. Additionally, providing educational and vocational training opportunities for at-risk youth can help them acquire essential skills and break the cycle of poverty. These combined strategies aim to establish a holistic and sustainable support system for vulnerable children.