How to Respond to a Disclosure

Listen

Listening is more important than talking.

Respond calmly; do not panic.  Most disclosures are not emergencies.

Be patient; give your full attention allowing them time to tell you what happened.

Do not interrupt or voice any opinions.

Response

Reassure the child, young person, or vulnerable adult that it was right to tell you what happened. Say: “I am glad you told me" or "It was very brave of you to tell."

Do not promise to keep it secret.  Do not make promises.

Explain that in order for the child, young person, or vulnerable adult to be safe you will need to share their story with someone who can help.  “I am going to talk to someone who can help us.”

Report 

The following general information is needed to begin an investigation. 

*Do not ask for additional information other than what is listed below.

• Who is the alleged victim (name, address, age, parent/guardian contact information)?

• Who is the alleged offender?

• What is the abusive or neglectful act?

• Details are not necessary; only basic information of the abusive/neglectful act is needed.

• When did the abuse happen?

• If this information is nonspecific or unavailable, call anyway. 

• Where did the abuse happen?

• If this information is nonspecific or unavailable, call anyway. 

Other 

You do not need to be 100% sure that abuse or neglect has occurred; you only need reasonable suspicion.

Keep confidential notes about the contacts and all verbal/written correspondence that transpired.

Do not confront the alleged offender.

Do not inform the parent(s)/guardian. It may jeopardize the investigation or may put the child, young person, or vulnerable adult at risk.

If assistance is needed in reporting to the authorities, speak to the pastor, supervisor, or the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 314.470.1465.   However, you do not need permission to make a report.