The Olympic Games are almost here, and as part of an initiative to prevent violence against children in Brazil, UNICEF has launched an app called Proteja Brasil (Protect Brazil).

The app allows you to report incidents of violence against children and adolescents by flashing up telephone numbers, addresses and the best routes to the nearest police stations, protection councils and other organizations that help combat violence against children. You can report the time, location and circumstances of the incidents online and anonymously.

Unfortunately it seems the app only works in major Brazilian cities which means that violence against children in rural areas is unlikely to be reported through Proteja Brasil.

Nevertheless, if you’re in Brazil or visiting during the Olympics, do think about downloading the app and keeping an eye out for children who are suffering.

For those of us not lucky enough to visit Brazil over the next few weeks, UNICEF has also launched a sports initiative which promises to pledge funds for children in need around the world by encouraging participants to work out. For every milestone reached during exercise, UNICEF’s partners will donate to the charity to support its work protecting vulnerable children.

And if exercise isn’t your cup of tea, UNICEF have you covered – just complete their online quiz to earn points and help raise funds and awareness.

Researching Reform hopes everyone has a safe and exciting Olympics and we wish all the teams taking part lots of luck.

For anyone who would like to support the campaign from their work stations or sofas, you can use the hashtag #TeamUNICEF and share their child protection app.