Abuse

Abuse of any kind should be handled as follows:

Advance Preparation

You should be familiar with and carefully follow local laws regarding responsibilities and liabilities for reporting abuse (whether physical, sexual, emotional, or other). The following is a link explaining the state of Florida guidelines for educators: 

• Mandatory Abuse Reporting

In virtually every case, child abuse will need to be reported to law enforcement after calling the Church’s help line to receive instructions (contact brother Mason and he will give you the help line phone number). There may be different legal implications for victims under 18 years of age than for those who are older.

During Incident

When it appears a student might talk to you about personal or family involvement with abuse, you should explain that you are required to report allegations of all types of abuse by calling the Church’s help line or area legal counsel. While you should be patient, sensitive, reassuring, and understanding, you should direct the student to his or her bishop or branch president to discuss the problem. You should never try to assume the role of a bishop or branch president. You should always assume the student is being truthful. Call the help line as soon as possible. Do not discuss or report the matter to anyone unless directed to do so by the help line.

After Incident

Whenever you become aware of an instance of any type of abuse or alleged abuse, you should immediately call the help line.