restriction of free will or sexual behaviour (e.g., Truth or Dare,”and Spin the Bottle); • The discouraging of gossip; and • Consequences for violation of relationship parameters. Everyone at camp should be told that if anything happens that
makes them feel uncomfortable, they should talk to an adult they trust.
ISSUES & SUPPORT WHEN ABUSE IS SUSPECTED In addition to the possible impact of abuse on a child victim and the alleged abuser, there are special considerations in the camp environment when responding to suspicions of abuse. Consult with a child protection worker and/or police officer
when grappling with any of the considerations below. • How you respond to a child’s disclosure of abuse will have a direct effect on the impact of the abuse on the child. Try your best to remain calm as you listen openly; avoid asking leading or unnecessary questions (you are not an investigator!); provide comfort and reassurance, making sure that you tell the child that you are glad he or she is telling you about this; and tell the child that you will do everything you can to help, but don’t make promises you can’t keep. • Although every effort is made to respect confidentiality, news can spread fast, especially if authorities appear on the grounds, a child or staff member goes home or there is media attention. In order to contain the situation, everyone, including campers must be reminded about and respectful of confidentiality. It is impor- tant to acknowledge everyone’s feelings without divulging specif-
e a s p a w et r
CANOES & KAYAKSYAKS
CANO
For more information please contact At The Lake (ATL) Distributing:
www.atldistributing.ca
22 Canada Camps Spring 2010
A realistic approach to child abuse is essential to protecting
campers, and preparing staff for their important responsibilities. Be proactive by having policies in place and providing annual training for all staff, CITs and volunteers.
CC
Pearl Rimer is the manager of research & training at Boost Child Abuse Prevention & Intervention (formerly Toronto Child Abuse Centre). She designs and conducts award-winning training for community service providers, children and youth. Boost (
www.boostforkids.org) is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and violence through education and awareness, and to col- laborating with community partners to provide services to chil- dren, youth, and their families. The centre is a registered charity and has provided programs and services to children, youth, and their families in Toronto and surrounding areas since 1981.
ic details. A child protection worker can offer advice on the best way to explain the situation to the other campers, staff and par- ents, balancing confidentiality with the concerns of others. • Deciding if the victim goes home will depend on many fac- tors, including medical needs and comfort of the victim and his/her parents. Children who have been victims of abuse at camp should be allowed to call whomever they want whenever they want for support. This is particularly relevant for kids at overnight camps. • Others at camp may have known or been suspicious about abuse, but did not disclose their concerns. Kids in particular do not want to be seen as “tattle tales.” Once there is an awareness of the situation, these individuals may feel guilty, or in some way responsible for what has happened. When debriefing with them, it is important to emphasize that everyone’s safety is the most important factor. • If the alleged abuse happened at camp, many children may feel worried about their own safety, and in fact others who have a trauma history may be triggered. Trust is often shattered if someone at camp has been accused of mistreatment. Reinforce to everyone what is being done to keep everyone safe (e.g., the alleged offender is no longer at camp, increased supervision). • Parents may express many emotions, including shock, confu- sion, anger, fear, disgust and denial. Provide them with immediate support, and discuss the options (e.g., if their child stays at camp). It is important that parents understand that the camp director and staff are not investigators or judges — explain the camp’s role and the obligation to report. • Any communication sent to the camp community regarding an incident should be reviewed with a child protection agency/police before distribution. Offer referrals for professional help, and follow-up with families to see if ongoing support is needed (e.g., help lines, counseling services, children’s mental health centres, parent groups, community information services, legal support services, public health). • Make every effort to restore a sense of normalcy at camp, and to model positive coping skills. Consistency will help to rebuild trust, and fun activities will help to reduce stress for everyone. Be tuned in to campers or staff who may be exhibiting concerning behaviours (e.g., sadness, withdrawal, difficulty sleeping, angry outbursts). This information, along with any further disclosures, may be helpful to the investigation and to those who are support- ing the child and family.
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