Bangkok Post – Breaking the cycle

‘Our mission is to break the cycle of despair,” says Chanya Sueb­petch, one of the members of a team of social workers at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok. The 37-year-old works in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Pediatrics. Chan­ya’s work is therefore focused strongly on supporting vulnerable children.

When Chanya walks into the interview room where much of her work is done, particularly speaking to suspected victims of abuse, the efforts to protect children are immediately visible. The room is set up with cameras to record interviews. This is crucial to avoid children having to repeat interviews, which can be traumatic experiences.

“These measures are essential for any child brought in for consultation,” says Chanya, while pointing to a room behind a one-way mirror. Although this room means that a child can speak without feeling…