Commentary
1. Signs of Abuse
If you observe that a child is exhibiting any one of the signs of child abuse, be aware that the presence of any one of the signs does not confirm abuse or neglect. However, the presence of a number of these signs may be reason for the volunteer to discuss concerns or observations with the staff person to whom the volunteer is responsible. It is very important not to jump to conclusions but rather to look carefully at the entire situation for evidence that would give you reason to suspect child abuse. None of the signs alone proves that a child is being maltreated but when the signs appear repeatedly they should elicit concern.
2. Acts of abuse perpetrated by a cleric, employee or volunteer of the Diocese
Any regular volunteer who witnesses an act of child abuse perpetrated by a cleric, employee or volunteer of the diocese, has cause to suspect that such an act has occurred, or receives a report of such an act, must report the incident immediately to the Division of Family Services in Delaware (hot line number: 1-800-292- 9582) or to the Department of Social Services in the Maryland County where the allegedly abused child lives, or if different, where the abuse is alleged to have taken place (hot line number: 1-800-492-0618). Immediately thereafter, the volunteer should promptly notify his or her immediate supervisor and the Vicar General for Administration.
3. Potentially abusive behavior
Any regular volunteer who observes a cleric, employee or another volunteer behaving in a manner that may pose a potential risk to a child is to report the matter to the staff person to whom they are responsible without delay.