The opening event was organised on World Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse. Operated by the Centre for Missing and Exploited Children, a non-profit organisation with 18 years of experience, the new office enhances accessibility for children, parents, and professionals, particularly in rural and island areas.

The SIC Croatia Split office's core activities include:

• Education on safe internet use.
• Prevention of violence through school visits and fieldwork.
• Counselling for victims of violence and juvenile offenders.

The office in Split was established with support from Split-Dalmatia County, enabling the employment of social pedagogues, pedagogues and sociologists, who started preparing for their roles in the summer of 2024.

Training for experts, 'Safe childhood: Together against abuse – prevention, support, and collaboration in child protection,' was held on 19 and 20 November 2024 in Split, and included expert lectures and hands-on training. Topics covered included abuse prevention, self-care for professionals, and supporting children in digital environments, and the event gathered over 150 professionals.

These events provided psychologists, social workers, and educators with practical tools for supporting at-risk children. Notable speakers included psychiatrist Tomislav Franić, clinical psychologist Neda Pleić, and Associate Professor Lucija Vejmelka from the Faculty of Law in Zagreb.

According to Centre Director Tomislav Ramljak, over 150 professionals registered for the training within two days, highlighting the region's demand for these services. 

“This response confirms the importance of prevention efforts and community collaboration, connecting families, schools, and professionals,” said Ramljak.

"Parents still show shy interest, but we will try to change that too. Our desire is to create a positive environment for all user populations, and I think we are succeeding in that," Ljiljana Čulić, a new employee of the Centre for a Safer Internet said.

Help from experts at the SIC Croatia can be found via the Helpline line 0800 606 606 for anyone in need, from children and young people, to parents and experts. For any problems such as dealing with electronic violence, instructions on how to react appropriately in the school and family environment, to excessive use of technology and what steps to take in case of extortion. 

Find more information about the work of the Croatian Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline, and youth participation services, or find similar information for other Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.