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What will happen at the Child Advocacy Center? |
| The investigation of child abuse cases in Belknap County is a collaborative effort. We work as a team, along with you and your child, to make a difficult time as comfortable as possible. Our primary goal is to assure the safety and well being of your child. The usual procedure is for the CAC team to meet at the CAC, prior to your arrival. The team members usually include a police officer, someone from DCYF, someone from the County Attorney’s office, an advocate from New Beginnings, the interviewer and CAC staff. Upon your arrival at the CAC, you will be welcomed by CAC staff and directed to the Family Waiting Room. CAC staff will explain how the interview will work, and will answer whatever questions you might have. You and your child will be given a brief tour of the CAC, and you and your child will have the opportunity to meet the interviewer ahead of time. When your child is ready, the interviewer will bring your child to the interview room and talk with your child alone, while the other team members observe the interview by close circuit television. Parents are not permitted in either the interview room or the observation room during the interview. An advocate from New Beginnings will be available to be with you in the waiting room to provide information and support. The interview with your child is recorded on audio and video/dvd, and goes with the investigators as case evidence. After the interview you will meet with the team to discuss what will happen next and to address any questions you might have. |
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How should I prepare my child for the interview?
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| Your child should be told ahead of time about the interview. We suggest that you tell your child that he/she will be going to a place to talk to some people about what happened to him/her. Do not have you child practice what to say. Explain to your child that you will not be in the interview room or the observation room during the interview, but that you will be nearby in the waiting area. Your child should be assured that this is not a medical appointment, and that the offender will not be present. |
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What if my child doesn’t talk?
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| We recognize that talking about abuse is very difficult for a child. He/she may be willing to talk about it on one day, but not another. We do not pressure children to talk. If it is not a good day, we may reschedule another appointment. We may decide that your child is too young to make a statement. There may be a time in the future where we can try again.
We realize that this is a difficult time for you and your family. It is not an easy process for children or parents. We have found that children are most comfortable when their parents are calm and supportive. We will do whatever we can to be supportive of you. Please let us know how we can help you during this time. Please feel free to ask any of the team members any questions you might have. Our goal is to help you and your child through this process by providing information, referrals and support. |
