How to Report Abuse

A Mandated Reporter is a professional who has regular contact with vulnerable people—and is required to report to the proper authorities if abuse is observed or suspected.  You can make reports anonymously, but you can also be charged with negligence for failing to make a report. CAREGIVERS ARE MANDATED REPORTERS!

When making a report, be prepared to answer the following questions:

• Is the client in immediate danger?
• Is the client in need of emergency medical treatment?
• Does the client have any current medical problems?
• What is the client’s current living situation?
• Have you seen or heard yelling, hitting or other abusive behavior?
• Do you know the identity of the abuser?

WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT?

• If the situation is an emergency, the authorities forward the report to the police or paramedics.
• The case is assigned to a staff member who contacts the victim.  In some states, if the victim is a competent adult, he or she has the right to refuse an investigation.
• If appropriate, the authorities will conduct an investigation of the situation.   They may interview health care providers, police, clergy, neighbors, family and friends.
• Based on what the investigation shows, the victim may be moved to a safer location.
• If the authorities find that it is safe for the victim to remain in his or her current living situation (or an adult victim refuses to leave), they may arrange for a variety of support, including:
  
  • Mental health assessments.
  • Counseling for the victim and/or the abuser.
  • Support groups for stressed-out caregivers.
  • Legal services such as restraining orders that keep an abuser away from the victim or lawsuits to get back stolen funds.