The protection of youth is paramount to us. With this in mind, we are providing the following information in order to help you understand the procedures for reporting any type of child abuse.
As a volunteer who is directly or indirectly supervising minors, you are mandated to report any suspicion of child abuse, child neglect, child sexual abuse, and/or exploitation of children. This includes, but is not limited to a minor telling you that he/she is:
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Being harmed by someone else
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Is harming someone else
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Is harming themselves
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Is going to harm themselves
Each state has its own child abuse reporting hotline or child protective services office. If you believe a child is in danger, please contact your state’s child abuse reporting line first for the fastest local response. If you are unable to reach your state hotline or are unsure who to call, you can contact the National Child Abuse Hotline for assistance, support, and guidance.
The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is 1.800.4.A.CHILD (1.800.422.4453). Childhelp is a national organization that provides crisis assistance and other counseling and referral services. You can also look up your local child protective services by going to www.childwelfare.gov. The First Priority Executive Director (and appointed Board Member) must be notified the same day of reporting the incident.
If a parent, guardian, teacher or supervisor is suspected of child abuse and/or neglect: The Abuse Hotline is called immediately and First Priority staff is notified. The Executive Director will notify a school administrator as soon as possible.
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Complete a “Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect” form.
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DO NOT CALL THE PARENT.
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DO NOT CONTACT THE TEACHER.
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DO NOT INTERVIEW THE CHILD.
All information collected on incident is kept confidential by the First Priority staff.
