CHILDREN
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is child abuse?
Child abuse is when someone hurts or touches your body in a way that you are not comfortable with. This includes sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse and/or neglect.
Who can you tell if you’ve been abused?
You should tell a trusted adult or caregiver (such as your parent, guardian, teacher, coach, or counselor/therapist) right way.
What will happen if you tell?
The adult you told will make a report to the Department of Children and Families and/or the police and then a team of people will work together to keep you safe and healthy. To learn more about some of the people you may meet during the process please visit our programs and services tab. We’ve also created a video that explains the entire process. To view the clinic tour, click here.
Who is going to help you after you tell?
After you tell your story, you will be asked if you are interested in talking to someone about your feelings. If this is something you would like, you will be connected with a therapist based on your needs.
WHERE TO GET HELP
Connecticut Sexual Assault Crisis Services (CONNSACS) is a statewide coalition of individual sexual assault crisis programs. CONNSACS works to end sexual violence through victim assistance, community education, and public policy advocacy. For more information visit connsacs.org.
2-1-1 is a number that you can call if you are thinking about hurting yourself or someone else. You will have the option to talk to an EMPS clinician who can provide you with crisis support over the phone or in person. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Connecticut or 800-203-1234 outside of Connecticut.
LOVE146 is an international human rights organization working to end child trafficking and exploitation through survivor care, prevention education, professional training and empowering movement. For more information visit love146.org.
National Child Abuse Hotline is a centralized call center dedicated to child abuse. The caller will speak with a crisis counselor who is able to provide crisis intervention, information, literature, and referrals to thousands of emergency, social service, and support resources. All calls are anonymous and confidential. Hotline: 800-4-A-CHILD (422-2253) or visit childhelp.org.
NetSmartzKids provides age-appropriate resources to help teach children how to be safer on- and off-line. The program is designed for children ages 5-17, parents and guardians, educators, and law enforcement. With resources such as videos, games, activity cards, and presentations, NetSmartz entertains while it educates. For more information visit netsmartzkids.org.
Stop It Now prevents child sexual abuse by engaging adults, families and communities to take action before a child is hurt. For more information contact Hotline: 888-PREVENT (773-8368) or visit stopitnow.org.
SURVEYS
New Haven
Youth Feedback Survey for youth age 10 to 17
Middlesex
Youth Feedback Survey for youth age 10 to 17