|
  Mandated Reporting: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility
Melinda Rhodes,
LCSW, Treatment Director of Clinical Services and Leslie Hansen, MSW, CSW Intern
Child Abuse affects thousands of children each year. It is our responsibility to be the voice for our children. As caseworkers, therapists, foster parents, clergy and professionals we have taken an oath to protect and report if we suspect a child is being abused or neglected. Many times people will ignore and not want to be involved, that is not an option. Not reporting abuse or neglect is punishable by law and a person can serve prison time and large fines if found guilty. If you suspect someone abusing or neglecting a child and you are unsure, please discuss with your supervisor, pastor or colleague, seek advice, don’t ignore it! To prevent, we have to speak. Below are some guidelines to help you determine if you need to call Child Protective Services.
· What do we report?
ANYTHING that we think is abuse.
In Nevada, abuse or neglect of a child means physical and mental non-accidental injury; sexual abuse or sexual exploitation; or negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child under age of 18 caused or allowed by a person responsible for his welfare.
· When do we report it?
NOW…even if it’s something that happened in the past.
Example: If a foster parent just received a new placement and after a month, the child started to discuss with the foster parent that he or she was sexually abused three months ago, you MUSTreport it. There is no limitation of time.
Child Protective Services(CPS) 702-399-0081 has a quick and easy online reporting system so you don’t have to wait on hold.
Please click on the link below and save it in your favorites.
ChildProtectiveSerivesLink
For more reading on Preventing Child Abuse, please click on the link below and receive your FREE Child Welfare Information Gateway Booklet!
Understanding Child Abuse
|
