At Somethings, the safety and well-being of the teens we support are of utmost importance. Our commitment to creating a secure and nurturing environment means that we take our responsibilities as mandated reporters seriously.

What It Means to Be a Mandated Reporter

A mandated reporter is someone legally required to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. This responsibility is essential in protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring their safety. At Somethings, our team members are trained to recognize signs of potential harm and understand the steps necessary to take swift action when needed.

Why Mandated Reporting Matters

The goal of mandated reporting is to protect teens from any form of abuse, neglect, or endangerment. According to research from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, early intervention in cases of suspected abuse can significantly improve outcomes for at-risk youth. Our policy aligns with this research, as we prioritize immediate action to address safety concerns.

Our Approach to Mandated Reporting

• Training and Awareness: All team members undergo comprehensive training to identify signs of abuse or neglect and understand their reporting obligations. This training includes best practices for maintaining empathy and discretion while following legal requirements.

• Immediate Action: If a team member suspects a teen is in danger, they are required to report the concern to the appropriate child protective services or authorities without delay.

• Supportive Communication: We know that mandated reporting can be a sensitive issue. When possible and appropriate, we provide support to teens and guide them through the process to minimize stress or fear related to reporting.

What we are Required to Report

We are required to report the following if made aware by a teen in our program:

• Physical abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Child neglect

You can read more on North Carolina’s mandated reporter requirements here.

Transparency with Families

We believe in maintaining trust with both teens and their families. While mandated reporting prioritizes the safety of the teen, we remain committed to transparency. Parents or guardians will be informed when it is safe and appropriate, ensuring open communication while adhering to reporting laws.

Commitment to Safety

Our role as mandated reporters is one aspect of our broader commitment to fostering a secure environment for every teen we support. If you have any questions about our mandated reporter policy or would like more information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.

Thank you for your trust in Somethings. We are dedicated to supporting and protecting the well-being of teens and ensuring they have a safe space to thrive.

Learn More

If you want to learn more about our mandated reporting requirements, you may book a time below to meet with our team.