1. Policy Statement
Family Promise of Puget Sound is unequivocally committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of all children residing in or participating in our shelter programs. This policy establishes a strict NO PHYSICAL DISCIPLINE rule within all Family Promise of Puget Sound shelter facilities. Furthermore, it outlines the mandatory obligation of all Family Promise of Puget Sound staff and volunteers to immediately report any suspicion or allegation of child abuse and/or neglect, whether by a parent/guardian, another adult, or any other individual, concerning children residing at or involved with Family Promise of Puget Sound. Our commitment is to act swiftly and without hesitation to protect children from harm.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all Family Promise of Puget Sound shelter facilities, all individuals (adults and children) residing in or visiting the shelters, and all FPOPS staff (paid and unpaid) and volunteers. It covers all instances of suspected or alleged child abuse and/or neglect occurring within FPOPS programs or observed by FPOPS personnel.
3. Guiding Principles
* Child Safety First: The paramount consideration in all circumstances is the safety and protection of children.
* Zero Tolerance for Physical Discipline: Physical discipline is strictly prohibited within all FPOPS facilities.
* Mandatory Reporting: All staff and volunteers have a legal and ethical obligation to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately.
* Legal Compliance: Adhere strictly to all Washington State laws and regulations regarding child abuse and neglect reporting.
* Cooperation with Authorities: Fully cooperate with all investigative agencies to ensure the safety of children.
* Prevention and Awareness: Promote an environment that prevents abuse and neglect and educates staff, volunteers, and individuals on child safety.
4. Definitions
* Child Abuse: Any act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse, or exploitation, or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm to a child. (Consistent with Washington State definitions).
* Child Neglect: The failure of a parent or caretaker to provide for a child’s basic needs (e.g., food, shelter, clothing, medical care, supervision) when financially able to do so, or when offered financial or other means to do so. (Consistent with Washington State definitions).
* Physical Discipline: Any method of discipline that involves the use of physical force to cause bodily pain or discomfort, including but not limited to hitting, slapping, spanking, pushing, or shaking.
5. No Physical Discipline Policy
Family Promise of Puget Sound maintains a strict NO PHYSICAL DISCIPLINE policy within its shelter facilities. This means:
* No adult (parent/guardian, staff, volunteer, or other resident) is permitted to use physical force as a form of discipline on any child within FPOPS premises or during FPOPS-sponsored activities.
* Staff and volunteers will intervene appropriately if physical discipline is observed and will follow the reporting procedures outlined below.
* Individuals will be informed of this policy upon entry and are expected to adhere to it during their stay.
6. Mandatory Reporting of Suspected Abuse and/or Neglect
Family Promise of Puget Sound staff and volunteers have a legal and ethical obligation to report any suspicion or allegation of child abuse and/or neglect. This obligation is immediate and without question, regardless of who makes the allegation or observes the abuse/neglect.
6.1. Reporting Triggers
A report will be made immediately if:
* Any allegation of abuse and/or neglect is made by a child, an adult, or any other source.
* Any staff member or volunteer observes signs or behaviors consistent with abuse and/or neglect.
* There is any reasonable suspicion that a child has been or is at risk of being abused or neglected.
6.2. Reporting Procedures
Suspected or alleged abuse and/or neglect will be reported in one of two ways, following the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) guidelines:
1. Phone Report: The Shelter/Center Director or the witnessing staff member will immediately call the Abuse Reporting Hotline at 888-713-6115.
2. Online Report: Alternatively, or in addition, a report will be made online at the DCYF website: https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/safety/report-abuse.
* Immediate Action: The report must be made immediately upon suspicion or observation. Delaying a report is a violation of this policy and state law.
* Internal Notification: The staff member making the report must also immediately notify their direct supervisor and the FPOPS CEO after making the external report.
7. Cooperation with Investigative Authorities
In the event of an investigation by the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) or any other state agency (e.g., law enforcement), Family Promise of Puget Sound will:
* Cooperate Fully: Provide full cooperation with the investigative authority, including providing access to relevant information and personnel, in accordance with legal requirements and FPOPS confidentiality policies.
* Information Sharing: Share relevant case file notes and other pertinent information as required by the investigative agency.
* Law Enforcement Notification: Cooperate with and provide notification to law enforcement agencies assigned to the nature of the infraction, as required by law or by the investigative authority.
8. Responsibilities
* All Staff and Volunteers: Are mandatory reporters and are responsible for understanding and adhering to this policy, including the immediate reporting procedures. They must also refrain from any physical discipline.
* Shelter/Center Director: Responsible for ensuring all staff and volunteers are trained on this policy, overseeing proper reporting procedures, and acting as a primary point of contact for external agencies during investigations.
* CEO: Responsible for overall oversight of this policy, ensuring compliance, and providing guidance during complex investigations.
* Parents/Guardians (Individuals): Are responsible for adhering to the no-physical-discipline policy and cooperating with FPOPS staff and investigative authorities regarding child safety concerns.
9. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Any staff member or volunteer who fails to comply with this policy, including failure to report suspected abuse/neglect, or who engages in physical discipline, will face severe disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or service. Violations may also lead to legal penalties as mandated by state law.
10. Policy Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed annually by the CEO and Board of Directors, or more frequently as needed, to ensure its continued relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with current Washington State laws and best practices in child protection. Any revisions will be communicated to all relevant personnel.