This page is for Vincentian volunteers and employees.
Sometimes the people we serve tell us that they are or have been in abusive situations.
This may happen on a home visit or (less often) in our office or food pantry.
The victim-survivor could even be a volunteer or employee.
Our usual practice is:
First, ask whether the person currently feels safe.
If not, encourage or help them call civil authorities and/or domestic violence resources.
Offer a number to call rather than just saying "call somebody". Here's where to look:
Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs for a local domestic violence or sexual assault program.
Washington State END-HARM number for abuse of a child, vulnerable adult, or senior.
Second, when a victim-survivor seeks alternatives to VIRTUS child abuse prevention training:
Offer the two alternatives described on What to Expect page. This may also be appropriate for Vincentians who aren't literally victim-survivors but have been personally impacted by child sexual abuse.
See "Admin How To" Guide for instructions on assigning the alternative training.
If you want help or advice, contact the SVDP Archdiocesan Safeguarding Coordinator.
Respect the person's confidentiality. Don't discuss this with others, including Conference members.
For everyone:
Offer encouragement and referrals. No one deserves to be abused. Be prepared to provide referrals to local support programs for assault or domestic violence.
Carefully consider whether you should file a report.
Under Washington State law, most Vincentians are "Permissive Reporters". (Mandatory reporters already know they are mandatory reporters.)
Permissive reporters are expected to file reports when they have "reasonable cause" to suspect abuse or neglect of children or of adults defined as vulnerable by the state.
Adults not defined as vulnerable are expected to report their own abuse or assault. Be supportive and respect the person's decisions. Be aware that reporting while the victim-survivor is at risk can result in the violence escalating to further injury or death.
Learn more about what is considered abuse and where to report:
Vulnerable Adults: Recognizing Abuse and How to report abuse of vulnerable adults.
Children: What is Abuse and How to report abuse of children
Both: Quick link to reporting: Washington State END-HARM number
Also use your Conference's reporting procedures. A report will capture what you heard, what you observed, what did you do about it, and when. The next home visitor may appreciate this.
Note: if any of these links have changed, please notify the ADC Safeguarding Coordinator.
In the meantime, search with keyword followed by "Washington state". That usually works.