What We Do
The CAC (Child Advocacy Center) is an interview facility that law enforcement or child protective services use when they believe a child has experienced abuse or may have witnessed a traumatic event. The CAC is a safe, neutral environment—where the child tells about their experience to a trained interviewer who understands child development and to ask questions in a way that does not not re-traumatize the child. The CAC works with an MDT, a team that includes medical professionals, law enforcement, mental health, prosecution, child protective services, victim advocacy, and other professionals who make decisions together about how to help the child based on the interview. The CAC offers referrals for therapy and referrals for forensic medical exams, plus victim advocacy, case management, and other services. This is called the multidisciplinary team (MDT) response and is a core part of the work of CACs.
Interesting Info
- In FY 20/21: 547 forensic interviews of children were conducted through Children's Trust 4 CAC locations.
- 100% of the multi-disciplinary team members that collaborate with the CAC reported the forensic interview enhanced their ability to gather information.
- When appropriate, Elvis, an ADI certified facility dog, is available to sit with children during the forensic interview process.
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