1.2.3 Non-Caretaker Referrals

These are taken as "N" referrals.  Reporters alleging abuse of a child under 18 years of age, where there is no care, custody, or control are advised that the CA/N Hotline Unit will make a referral to the county office, but that it is not a child abuse/neglect report. The CA/N Hotline Unit will encourage the reporter to call the appropriate agency, such as the juvenile office or law enforcement.

If the identified alleged perpetrator is a juvenile, the referral is sent to the juvenile office, by the county office.  If an adult, the county office should refer the information to local law enforcement.

In situations of sibling/adolescent sex abuse, staff shall:

1. Contact the reporter (unless the report came directly to the county office) to determine the current situation, obtain additional information, and identify with the reporter an intervention strategy and time frame for contact with the family.  If the reporter can not be contacted, initiate contact with the family;
2. Initiate contact with the family to assure the safety of the child (acceptance of services by the family is on a voluntary basis for Non-Caretaker Referrals);
3. Complete an assessment with the family to:
• Ensure the victim is safe;
• Ensure that future risk to the victim is reduced;
• Identify services needed by the abuser and the victim; and
4. Provide services (FCS) as appropriate, and/or provide information and referral services to the family.