What You Can Do If A Student Reports Abuse

All schools must have Child Protection Committees/ Complaints Committee. Children must be aware of this and must know the reporting procedures. Such matters must be referred to the body for advice and action. Consult with the State Commission of Protection of Child Rights, Child Welfare Committees, NGOs etc. Villages also have Child Protection Committees. Seeking expert advice is important.

If a student reports abuse:

  • Listen carefully and calmly.
  • Reassure the child that s/he has done the right thing by sharing this information with you.
  • Do not disbelieve or challenge the child about the truthfulness of the facts. Suspend your own disbelief. Your job is to help the child and not that of an investigating authority.
  • Explain to the child, in an age appropriate language, that that this is a harmful situation and needs to be shared with some others in school and with responsible authorities.
  • Seek information from the child about who amongst the adults at home can the information be shared.
  • Do not leave the child alone until you are absolutely certain that the child is in safe custody.
  • Seek support from trained and responsible persons.
  • Reaffirm the child that s/he has done well to disclose this information and the school will be supporting him/her in every way.
  • Inform the guardians of the next steps that need to be taken i.e. reporting to higher authorities, seeking medical advice & intervention, law enforcing authorities etc. Document carefully. A situational assessment is very important.