What is the reporting code?
The reporting code for domestic violence and child abuse is a clear five-step plan, which states what you as a professional can best do if you suspect domestic violence or child abuse. The reporting code guides you step by step through the process. From the moment you suspect something to the moment you possibly decide to file a report.
The five steps of the basic reporting code model in brief:
- Mapping signals
- Peer consultation and, if necessary, consultation with the Child Abuse Advice and Reporting Center or Domestic Violence Support Center
- Conversation with the client
- Pathways to violence or child abuse: assessment of risk, nature and severity of violence
- Decide: organize or report help
Mandatory reporting code
A reporting code for domestic violence and child abuse works! Professionals who work with a reporting code intervene three times as often in cases of suspicion of domestic violence and child abuse. The reporting code will be mandatory for the following sectors: healthcare, education, childcare, social support, youth care, justice, police. Make sure you are prepared for this! With the basic model in hand, you can easily develop a customized reporting code for your organization.
