‘Stop it Now! Malta’ is a new helpline operated by the Child Protection Directorate, which will serve as a specialised tool to strengthen the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

In a statement, the Social Policy Ministry said that this service joins the range of other services that promote a proactive approach to child protection through education, support, and early intervention.

Unlike other services, this preventive helpline, 99059414, is specifically intended to address and prevent situations involving the abuse of minors.

For the time being, the helpline will operate from Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m, the ministry aid.

These details were announced during a press conference addressed by the Minister for Social Policy and the Family, Michael Falzon, who explained that this initiative is another way in which social workers are strengthening their outreach efforts to prevent all forms of abuse that may affect minors.

“Prevention is crucial because it allows us to intervene while there is still time to provide guidance and, at an early stage, prevent abuse from occurring—abuse that carries extremely negative consequences throughout the rest of a person's life,” said Minister Michael Falzon.

The helpline will also provide guidance and support to help individuals maintain control over their behaviour and is intended for anyone aged 18 years or over.

Individuals who are concerned about sexual thoughts involving persons under the age of 18, including online behaviour, may make use of this service, with their anonymity also being respected. The helpline is also intended for individuals who are currently under investigation for allegations of child sexual abuse, as well as for their family members and relatives. It may also assist those who have concerns about the behaviour of another person.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), Alfred Grixti, said that the helpline was launched to address realities such as child sexual abuse and reports relating to child sexual abuse material.

He explained that ‘Stop it Now! Malta’ was developed in collaboration with ‘Stop it Now! UK & Ireland’, which has been operating successfully for more than 20 years and has had a positive impact on those involved.