As we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a very stressful and difficult situation for many families. The Yolo County Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) is very concerned about the increased risk for child abuse and neglect during this crisis. Yolo Child Welfare Services (CWS) has reported about a 40% decline in child abuse and neglect referrals this spring, likely due to reductions in face-to-face interactions with adults in the community due to the pandemic.
We have a collective responsibility to ensure kids in our community are safe and healthy, even during challenging times. While it may be difficult to maintain our normal connection with children during the COVID‐19, there are other ways we can address the safety and well‐being of our children and families. The Yolo CAPC wants to share several resources that can help support children and families and protect children who might be experiencing child abuse and neglect.
1) Supporting Safety and Well-being of Children and Families during COVID-19 (also attached): This guide provides tips for teachers, social workers, counselors, day care providers and others who work with children and contact them virtually. It includes questions that providers can ask parents and caregivers as well as children and youth. It also identifies some areas of concern that might indicate a need for a report or a consultation call to Yolo County Child Welfare Services through the Yolo County Child Abuse Reporting Hotline at 530-669-2345.
2) Protecting Children: Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect: Mandated reporters and community members can use this document to learn the warning signs of abuse and neglect and how to report suspected child abuse and neglect to Yolo Child Welfare Services.
3) Safeguarding Children Through Distance Learning: This joint presentation is in partnership with the California Department of Social Services, California State PTA, and California Teachers Association. The purpose of this 45-minute webinar is to provide education professionals with considerations for innovative ways they can help to keep children safe by recognizing and reporting signs of suspected child abuse and neglect through distance learning.
4) California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Trainings are available online for the general population, school personnel, child care providers, medical professionals, mental health & social workers, law enforcement, and clergy.
Please share these documents widely. Thank you very much for your help in supporting families and protecting children.
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