Mental Health Matters
April 2019
Information, Resources, Upcoming Events
Ripon Area School District would like to share information and resources so that we as a community feel we can keep our children safe and well. Below you will find:
- Information about reporting suspected abuse or neglect
- What Can We Do To Help?
- Ways To Get Involved and Upcoming Events
- Community Mental Health Resource Booklet and Guide which contain:
**Drug, Alcohol, Domestic Violence Resources
**Disability Related Services
**Help Meeting Basic Needs (Economic Assistance, Health Care, Food, Clothing, Housing, Transportation)
**Community Meals, Local Churches
**Educational and Family Fun Activities
**Online Resources
Child Abuse & Neglect
What is child abuse? Child abuse is the physical, sexual, or emotional maltreatment of a child by a parent, family member, other caregiver or non-caregiver.
What is neglect? Neglect occurs when a parent or caregiver refuses or is unable, for reasons other than poverty, to provide the necessary care, food, clothing, medical or dental care to the extent that it seriously endangers the physical health of the child.
REPORTING: Certain individuals are “mandated reporters”; this means they are legally obligated to report suspected abuse and neglect of any child they see in the course of their professional duties. These include professionals such as law enforcement officials, medical and mental health professionals, teachers, counselors, school administrators, social and child care workers, etc.
ANYONE can report suspected abuse and neglect– this is done by calling the Department of Social Services (or Department of Human Services) in the county in which the alleged abuse/neglect took place. If you are experiencing abuse or neglect, please report or tell a trusted, safe adult.
TO REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE/NEGLECT CALL:
- Fond du Lac County Access Unit/Child Protective Services @ 920-929-3400
- Green Lake County Health & Human Services @ 920-294-4070
You can also contact local law enforcement if there is an emergency need for assistance.
What happens when I make a report about suspected abuse or neglect?
· You could save a child’s life.
· Reporting may open the door for families to receive resources or services they desperately need.
· You could prevent further abuse or neglect.
· You will speak to an intake worker when you call. They will listen to your concerns; share as much detail as you can. Be prepared to share names, addresses, phone number of the child, and also the name of the parent or caregiver. You can make the report anonymously unless you are a mandated reporter. Mandated reporter must provide their name however this information is not shared out beyond the agency.
· If your report is screened in, a social worker will follow up with everyone involved to gather more information. Reporting does not automatically result in children being removed from their homes. Sometimes families are connected with supports and services that will help them function safely.
(information gathered from WI Dept. of Children & Families, FDL County Social Services)