3.4.5 Handling Disclosures

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a young girl and an older woman seating on a chair facing each other

Disclosure is the process where a survivor of abuse, or witness lets another person or the institution know that abuse is taking place, has taken place or is likely to take place. The disclosure may be in person, or through the established reporting channels. The table below outlines what to do or what not to do when taking disclosures.

Taking a Disclosure

What To Do

What Not to do

Listen to and acknowledge what is being said

Do not promise confidentiality

Try to be reassuring and remain calm

Do not show shock, alarm, disbelief, or disapproval.

Explain clearly what you will do and what will happen next

Do not minimise what is being said

Take action – don’t ignore the situation. All claims must be taken seriously.

Reflect on key phrases being said to check common understanding. 

Record a factual report of what is being said, sign and date it.

Do not ask probing or leading questions, or push for more information

 Do not investigate

Tell them that:

  • They were right to tell you;
  • You are taking what they have said seriously;
  • It was not their fault, and;
  • That you would like to pass this information on to the appropriate people, with their permission.

Do not offer false reassurance

Be open and honest

Do not contact the alleged abuser.

Give contact details for them to report any further details or ask any questions that may arise.

Do not investigate the incident any further


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