Responding to a disclosure

Listen to the child and keep calm. 
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Don’t question the child. Investigators are trained to ask the right questions and get the information they need in the best way possible.
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Write down what the child says and your observations.

Be honest and don’t make promises to the child that you may not be able to keep ("The offender will go to jail" or "You will never have to see them again.").
 
Don’t confront the suspected offender.
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Report what happened. Call the DHHS Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-452-1999. Contact local law enforcement where the incident occurred.
The CAC model has brought professionals together to work in a better way for families."
         -Pam Mayo-Watson,                     Child Protective Services

Reporting abuse can seem difficult, but it's important. You may be the person who changes a child's life.
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​262 Harlow Street 
Bangor, ME 04401
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207-974-2469
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In accordance with federal regulations, Penquis Children’s Advocacy Center does not discriminate in the access to or provision of its services.

Penquis Children's Advocacy Center is funded in part by Maine's Department of Health and Human Services and your generous public and private donations.