A Caregiver’s Role: The CAC Process

By: Emma Konn

Your Role As A Caregiver When a Child Discloses:

When a child discloses abuse, it is essential to remain calm and express your belief and support. 

A child’s willingness to disclose this type of information typically signifies a substantial degree of trust in you. Your response plays a critical role in shaping how the child understands and processes their experience.

Demonstrating distress or shock may unintentionally signal to the child that they have done something wrong. It is important to reassure the child that the abuse is not their fault and affirm that you are there to support them.

Avoid pressing the child for details beyond what they are comfortable sharing. Let them know that you are going to report the abuse to ensure their safety, and emphasize that you will continue to be there for them throughout the process. Even if you are uncertain about the next steps, being honest and transparent can help the child feel safer and more at ease.

Supporting The Child Through The CAC Process:

If your child is scheduled to attend an interview at the CAC, your support throughout the process can play a vital role in their healing journey. One of the most effective ways to support your child is by helping them understand what to expect during their visit. The CAC provides detailed information about the process and frequently asked questions on our website: https://cacofbc.org. For more in-depth information regarding the Forensic Interview specifically, please click HERE.

While Forensic Interviews are designed to offer a safe and supportive environment for children to share their experiences, the concept may feel overwhelming. It’s important to talk to your child about the appointment in a calm and reassuring way. Let them know that someone will be asking questions to help understand what happened, that the setting is safe, and that they are not in any trouble. Emphasize that the most important thing is to be honest and share what they feel comfortable telling.

If your child does not feel ready to disclose information during their scheduled visit, the CAC can arrange for the interview to be rescheduled at a later time when the child may feel more prepared to share their story. 

CAC Support: 

As part of your child’s Forensic Interview process at the CAC, you will be assigned a Family Advocate. This advocate will serve as your primary point of contact and support throughout the case. Family Advocates are trained professionals who assist families in navigating the various systems and agencies involved in child protection. They can provide guidance and assistance with referrals, access to community resources, orders of protection, victim compensation, and other supportive services.

Continued Support:

The CAC process can be emotionally challenging for both children and families. It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions during and after the process. Supporting your child begins with taking care of yourself.

To best support your child and your family:

  • Prioritize self-care. Your emotional well-being directly impacts your ability to support your child. Taking care of yourself is essential.
  • Maintain routines. A consistent daily routine can provide a sense of stability and safety for your child during uncertain times.
  • Be patient. Your child may express their needs or emotions differently than usual. They may require more attention, or they may withdraw. Allow them the space to feel and process in their own way.
  • Avoid asking questions about the incident. If your child wants to talk, listen without probing. Reassure them that they are safe and supported, but let the trained professionals handle any detailed questioning.

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