About Us
STACAN
STACAN is an acronym which stands for:
Standing Together Against Child Abuse and Neglect.
Formed by Elsie Owusu-Kumi (a UK qualified Social Worker)
STACAN is a non-profit organisation with a particular focus on promoting the general wellbeing of children in Ghana. We carry out our work by collaborating with individuals and groups with similar interests to address peculiar issues faced by children and young people in our society. Our work takes the form of outreach i.e workshops, training, community work, and work with individuals and groups.
We seek to educate and empower by creating an awareness of what constitute Child Abuse and neglect, and equipping parents, carers, professionals and individuals who are involved in meeting the care needs of children, with the skills and knowledge needed.
Peculiar Issues we seek to touch on include: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), sexual abuse/rape of children, Child Marriage, Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE), Abuse linked to Faith, Internet Safety, mental health and wellbeing of children, Child Labour, Children branded as witches, domestic violence and abuse and the impact on children, Child Trafficking etc. Whilst we acknowledge that Child Abuse covers a broad area, a primary concentration will be Child Sexual Abuse and Rape.
We equally aim to liaise with policy makers and decision makers at both the local and national level to influence decisions made about the rights and wellbeing of children.
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OUR VALUES
Our work is guided by key legislations and human rights treaties such as The United Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). UNCRC is devoted to the best interests of the child, and sets out rights that must be realised for children to develop their full potential.
As a service we recognise the fundamental human dignity of children and the urgency of ensuring their well-being and development is promoted.
Key values underpinning our work include: Respect for all persons, Non-judgemental attitude, Equality, Social justice, and anti-oppressive practice.