Disclosure of Harm

A disclosure of harm occurs when someone, including a child, tells you about harm that has happened, is happening, or is likely to happen to a child.

Disclosures of harm may start with:

• ‘I think I saw…’

• ‘Somebody told me that…’

• ‘Just think you should know…’

• ‘I’m not sure what I want you to do, but…’

It is important to act quickly and in the best interests of the child or young person after a disclosure of harm is received, irrespective of the alleged source of harm. This is an obligation of all staff and volunteers who work with children.

Suspicion of Harm

A suspicion of harm is when someone has a reasonable suspicion that a child has suffered, is suffering, or is at an unacceptable risk of suffering, significant harm. This includes circumstances which relate to an unborn child who may be in need of protection after he or she is born. A child who has been, or may be experiencing, abuse may show behavioural, emotional or physical signs of stress and abuse. There may also be other circumstances where there is concern for a child’s welfare but it does not reach the threshold to be considered a disclosure or suspicion of harm.

If you suspect harm toward a child, you should notify your head of department asap with your suspicion.

Managing a Disclosure or Suspicion of Harm

Citipointe Church considers all complaints and disclosures or suspicions of harm serious. All disclosures are dealt with honestly, fairly and confidentially.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER

Your response to a disclosure of harm.

• remain calm and listen attentively, actively and non-judgmentally  

• find a private place to talk that is in view of others

• talk in your own words and ensure just enough open-ended questions are asked to act protectively (e.g. ‘Can you tell me what happened’…or ‘Can you tell me more about that’). Don’t ask leading questions which tend to suggest an answer.

• ensure the child is advised that the disclosure cannot remain a secret and it is necessary to tell someone in order to get help  

• reassure the child they have done the right thing by telling you  

• document the disclosure clearly and accurately, including a detailed description of:

  • the relevant dates, times, locations and who was present  

  • exactly what the person disclosing said, using “I said,” “they said,” statements  

  • the questions you asked  

  • any comments you made, and  

  • your actions following the disclosure  not attempt to investigate or mediate an outcome, and 

• Talk to your Department Head and supply them with your report.

From the Qld government Child and youth risk management strategy toolkit