Reacting to Disclosures
Advice about how to react if a young person or vulnerable adult informs you that they are being abused.
If a child, young person or vulnerable adult confides in you...
- React calmly, don’t panic or appear shocked
- Listen carefully to what they are saying and allow them to talk
- Don't probe for information, ask leading questions or make assumptions
- Tell them that you cannot keep what they have told you a secret, but that you will only tell designated officers that will help to find them the help that they need
- Reassure them that it is not their fault
- Don’t approach the identified individual
- Take them seriously, don’t ignore it
- Complete the appropriate child protection or incident reporting form, recording accurately what you have been told
- Contact the relevant individual or organisation immediately to report your concerns (remember to keep a record of who you have spoken to). For further information please visit our 'Useful Contacts' section.
