DISCLOSURES
Never make false promises to a child who is disclosing.
Don’t say things like:
- I won’t tell anyone.
- I won’t tell Mum or Dad.
- You’ll never have to see (perpetrator) again.
- I’ll be with you whenever you need me.
Tip No 8 - Never make false promises
Trust is an important issue for children suffering abuse. They’ve usually had their trust violated, and when they reflect on their disclosure later, the last thing they need to feel is that you too violated their trust.
Don’t promise that everything will be okay or you’ll be there whenever they need you – but promise that you will do what you can to help and support them.
Don’t promise that you won’t tell anyone – but promise that you will talk to someone who can help and support them.
Don’t promise that they won’t have to see the offender again or that the offender will be locked up in jail – but you can tell them that the Child Protection Police will help them stay safe.