Responding to Disclosures & Sensitive Conversations
Responding to Disclosures & Sensitive Conversations
The first response can affect whether a person feels safe enough to continue seeking help.
If somebody discloses abuse, assault, exploitation or fear, stay calm. Listen without demanding detail. Do not promise that nothing will happen or that the information will stay secret. Explain that you may need to share it with people responsible for keeping them safe.
Listen+
Give the person time. Avoid interrupting or filling silence. Do not press for a complete account when the immediate purpose is to secure safety and obtain appropriate support.
Use open, limited questions+
Questions such as “Can you tell me what you need right now?” or “Is anyone in immediate danger?” are usually more appropriate than suggesting answers or testing the story.
Do not promise secrecy+
Be honest: information may need to be shared on a need-to-know basis with safeguarding leads, management, medical staff or emergency services.
Preserve the person's words+
As soon as practical, record key statements using the person’s own words where possible. Distinguish clearly between what they said and what you personally observed.
Your job is not to build a case. Avoid leading questions, repeated questioning or asking the person to retell distressing details unnecessarily.
Knowledge check
What should you say if someone asks you to promise not to tell anyone?
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