Orphans and Vulnerable Children - CRIN

Sexual Abuse of Children

Handout 6 - Module 1 Topic 4

Steps to take when sexual abuse of a child is suspected

With the child

Listen calmly to the child’s story–it is very difficult for a child to talk about sexual

abuse. The child may have been threatened with harm or even death by the

abuser if they tell what happened. You should help them report the incident to

the nearest authorities. There are often specially trained police at police stations

that a child can speak to.

Child sexual abuse can also be reported to local council leaders, probation

officers, teachers, community development officers, or child rights services.

Your CCC and/or your home visitor trainer should have explained the correct

channels for you to follow if you suspect that one of the children you are visiting

has been abused. In the space below, record the authority in your community

where you can report suspected cases of child abuse to.

Report to: ________________________________________________________

Medical assistance

If the child has been sexually assaulted, he or she will need medical attention.

If possible, two healthcare workers should examine the child, ideally those

appointed by the police. This must be done within 24 hours and before the child

bathes or washes his/her clothes, especially underwear. Keep the clothes in a

plastic bag and give them to the police to preserve the evidence of the crime.

Review of steps to take

• Comfort and reassure the child, provide the child with loving care and a safe
  place to talk.


• Inform the parent or guardian.


• Do not tamper with evidence: clothes, blood stains and bruises should not
  be washed.


• The child should not wash or bath before a medical examination.


• Torn dresses or pants should not be washed before reporting to the police
  or other authority–they will be used as evidence.


• Take action: report the case of abuse to the authority you have identified
  during your training.

Guide to Mobilising and Strengthening Community-Led Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children Appendix 1, Handouts^311