23 March 2025
Dr Jacquelline Pearson. Staff Specialist Paediatric Clinical Lead PARVAN – Northern Sydney Local Health District. Prevention and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect (PARVAN) Service.
The Cornucopia Committee had the privilege of hearing from Dr. Jacqui Pearson. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and her message was both powerful and sobering.
Jacqui began by introducing herself and the vital work of the PARVAN Service, which supports children who have experience abuse, neglect, and domestic family violence. The Service focuses not only on medial care but also on healing through child-focused, trauma-informed therapy.
One of the most impactful parts of her speech was when she shared statistics from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study 2023. The study revealed that one in four Australians has experienced child sexual abuse, often compounded with other forms of maltreatment. The numbers were shocking, highlighting the scale of the issue and the far-reaching effects on children’s mental health. Many of these children face anxiety, depression and post -traumatic stress disorder because of their experiences.
Jaqui also shared a de-identified client story that was both heartbreaking and uplifting and highlighted the power of a safe, supportive environment and specialised therapy in supporting children’s healing following abuse. Jacqui closed by expressing heartfelt thanks to the Cornucopia Fundraising Committee for their continued support. By the end of the presentation, we were all moved by the compassion and dedication of everyone working at the PARVAN Service. Their work is invaluable, and it’s clear that the commitment and support of the Cornucopia Committee is making a tangible difference in the lives of children who need it the most.
