Adult Disclosure Process

It is possible for any of the following to occur:

  • You become aware of an abusive situation relating to an adult
  • An adult discloses they are experiencing and/or have experienced abuse
  • An adult confesses to abuse

In the context of adult related Safe Church issues conduct or behaviour within the CRCA that is classified as criminal under the various state legislation, must be reported.

If a person is in immediate danger always contact the State Police first and then contact the SCU to report. If there is no immediate danger but an allegation or evidence is brought that indicates a criminal act has occurred then contact the State Police first and then the SCU. If in doubt or unsure about contacting police then call the SCU in the first instance. The SCU can then advise you how to proceed.

In situations where you become aware of abuse it is extremely important that you do not compromise the situation in any way. The following disclosure process for adult-related abuse situations is intended to ensure that we hear the allegation and take appropriate immediate action to ensure the safety of those involved without compromising the evidence.

What to do if an adult discloses abuse

  1. Listen, listen, listen…and do not add anything.
  2. As far as possible, only ascertain the gist of the allegation. Obtain appropriate details while being aware that at this early stage it is not appropriate to probe too deeply. Ask what can be done to make them feel safe.
  3. Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling you.
  4. Provide details of what you will do now – namely, support them and contact the SCU.
  5. Make notes of what was said and report – to the State Police if it is urgent and to the SCU.
  6. Prepare a report about the abuse using Incident Management in SMO (Safety Management Online).

Some things to remember:

  • Do not compromise the situation by making comments, giving advice or adding to the allegations
  • Do not make a judgement about whether you think an allegation is true at this early stage
  • Follow the process outlined in the above steps
  • Do not be under the misapprehension that by treating an allegation with compassion you are prejudicing the rights of an alleged offender. This is not the case.