Victim Assistance

Child Abuse

Children are among the most vulnerable people we serve.  Survivors of child abuse, who have often been hurt by the very people responsible for their safety and wellbeing, confront special challenges when it comes to disclosing that harm.  They may: blame themselves; fear retaliation or disbelief; or have conflicted emotions about reporting abuse by a family member they depended on.  We understand those concerns and have the expertise to work through them with young victims and their loving caregivers.

When a child or adult survivor does make the courageous choice to come forward and disclose abuse, Suffolk prosecutors, victim-witness advocates, and other staff will be there to listen and to ensure victims receive the services they need to heal.  All child abuse investigations are conducted in a manner that aims to hold abusers accountable while attempting to limit and treat the trauma caused to victims.  Forensic interviews conducted with specially trained professionals limit the number of times that a survivor must disclose abuse, and we offer all the resources of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County – a one-stop service center for children and their non-offending caretakers to meet with police, prosecutors, advocates, medical and mental health clinicians, social workers, and other service providers.  Knowing that the court process can be intimidating even for adults, we take every step to prepare young victims and witnesses for what they can expect as their cases move forward.

Resources

Children’s Advocacy Center of Suffolk County: 617-779-2146

Child at Risk Hotline: 800-792-5200

Click here to find a Department of Children and Families area office near you.

CyberTipline to report online child exploitation: 800-THE-LOST