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1. CARE AND PROTECTION Your concerns are taken seriously and an investigation is commenced with the safety and welfare of the child placed foremost. To begin with Social Workers will speak with the child and other relevant people.
2. EVIDENTIAL OR DIAGNOSTIC INTERVEIW The child may have a video taped interview in case this evidence is needed for further action. This is done with care for the child and sensitivity to the abuse he or she may have been the victim of. In some areas this is called an “evidential interview”, in other areas it is called a “diagnostic interview”
3. MEDICAL ASSESSMENT The child may be examined by medical staff who are trained in dealing with sexual abuse and who have experience in treating children with kindness and understanding.
4. LEGAL PROCEDURES Child Sexual Abuse is a serious offence that cannot be taken lightly. For the sake of the child and the safety of other children the police may follow up on the evidence and this may lead to the prosecution of the offender.
5. COUNSELLING The child and his or her parents or caregivers have a right to counseling and there are counseling services that specialize in caring for the victims of child sexual abuse and their parents or caregivers.
CLICK HERE to go to a simple flow chart outlining the above process.
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“WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I TELL?”
So, what will happen if you report the possible sexual abuse of a child? The first you need to know is that a number of different agencies will be involved to oversee the following procedures: |
