KP begins consultation on child care regulations to improve protection standards

PESHAWAR: A two-day consultation on child care regulations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa began in Peshawar on Tuesday, bringing together government officials, care institutions, and development partners to review draft rules aimed at strengthening protection for vulnerable children.

The workshop, organised by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection and Welfare Commission with support from UNICEF Pakistan, focuses on improving standards in alternative care institutions and ensuring stronger oversight mechanisms.

Participants include representatives from public and private care facilities, religious education bodies, and stakeholders from across the province. The consultation is designed to refine draft regulations and develop a more consistent framework for child care services.

Secretary Social Welfare Sharif Hussain said vulnerable children face multiple challenges and require a coordinated protection system. He noted that existing initiatives, including district-level protection committees, have supported more than 34,000 at-risk children.

Focus on standards and accountability

Officials said the proposed regulations aim to standardise care practices and improve accountability in child care institutions. The framework is expected to guide service delivery, monitoring, and institutional responsibilities.

UNICEF representatives highlighted the importance of safe and supportive environments for children, reaffirming continued support for strengthening protection systems in the province.

Expansion of protection services

Authorities also shared plans to expand child protection units to additional districts, including Malakand, Shangla, Mansehra, Nowshera, and Dera Ismail Khan.

The workshop includes technical presentations, group discussions, and stakeholder feedback sessions. Participants are reviewing key provisions and proposing recommendations to ensure the regulations are practical and inclusive.

Officials said the consultation is part of broader efforts to improve child welfare systems and ensure consistent standards of care across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.