forensic interviews in Shawnee
Starting a Report
How to Make a Report
Once a report is made and law enforcement commences an investigation, an advocate will contact Sunflower House to schedule a forensic interview with the child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of information should a report contain?
A: Mandated reporters and concerned citizens should attempt to include the following information
- The name and address of the child, the child’s parents, or other individuals
- responsible for the child’s care
- The child’s birth date or age
- The child’s location
- The child’s condition, including the nature and extent of the child’s injury
- Whether the alleged perpetrator has access to the child
- Any other information that the reporter believes might be helpful in showing the cause of the injuries or the extent to which the child might be in danger.
Q: Will the identity of the reporter be disclosed once a report is made?
A: Kansas law provides the identity of the reporter may not be disclosed to the child’s parent, or persons having legal responsibility for the child or to such persons’ legal representatives. The protection is not absolute, however. If a case is heard in court there is a possibility the identity of a reporter will be discovered.
Q: Is the reporter liable for reporting suspected child abuse and neglect?
A: Kansas law provides immunity from lawsuits against reporters of child abuse. In addition, reporters are immune from civil liability if required to participate in court proceedings.
If you have any suspicions of abuse, make a report.
If you have questions or want to talk with a Sunflower House staff prior to making a report, feel free to contact our Intake Coordinator at 913-631-5800.
About Sunflower House
Sunflower House is a non-profit founded in 1977.
It is a non-residential children’s advocacy and abuse prevention center serving Johnson and Wyandotte counties. The questions, “What would I want for my child if he or she were abused?” and “How can we stop the cycle of child abuse?” drive every decision made at Sunflower House.
The agency addresses abuse and neglect through a comprehensive approach—engaging children, parents, child-serving professionals and the community. Sunflower House is an accredited member of the National Children’s Alliance. Accreditation through this national affiliate ensures adherence to best practice standards of its federally recognized multidisciplinary approach to child abuse investigations.
