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Children's Advocacy Center Support for Families
Submitted by: Jennifer Stambaugh
CAC Victim Advocate
The Children's Advocacy Center here at Child Advocacy may be most widely known for conducting Forensic Interviews for children/teens when there has been an allegation of physical or sexual abuse, witness to violence, or drug endangerment. However, in addition to this very critical service, families also receive other services including victim advocacy. The Victim Advocate meets with the family and child at the time of the Forensic Interview providing emotional support and reassurance, resources, and referrals to start the family on a path towards healing.
How well a child copes following the disclosure of abuse has a lot to do with the support of the family. As such, it is important for the Victim Advocate to work closely with not only child victims, but also their families after the disclosure of abuse.
The advocate can provide access to needed information, and specialized services and support throughout the healing and justice processes. Assistance may include:
- Crisis intervention
- Assessment of individual and family needs
- Therapy referrals
- Education on access to victim's rights and Crime Victim Compensation
- Court Accompaniment
- Case updates
- Connection with community resources
- Support Groups
The ongoing support of the victim advocate can continue for months after the initial visit to the Children's Advocacy Center.
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