While we always try to keep the shop as positive an environment as possible, we must always be mindful of the experiences participants are having outside the shop. If you ever suspect that a child has been the victim of abuse or neglect, as employees and volunteers ("Mandated Reporters" under Maine law) we have a moral and legal obligation to file a report with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
It's certainly not a pleasant thing to think about, but education is probably the best way to recognize and deal with these harsh realities. The Maine DHHS encourages to look out for physical and behavioral indicators, available here.
All CBC staff complete mandated reporter training and it's suggested that you do too -- it doesn't take long and is available here.
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