Child Advocacy Center that investigates and prosecutes each case of child sexual abuse or assault, acute child physical abuse, and criminal neglect in Worcester County. Program uses a multi-disciplinary team approach by partnering with several agencies such as: Atlantic General Hospital, Life Crisis Inc., local law enforcement, Department Social Services, ad the States Attorney's Office. Program allows each child's time in the legal system to be expedited. An interview is done with the victim while professionals observe from another room while it is recorded. This is to help prevent the child from becoming re-traumatized while recalling the story to several individuals. A family advocate to support each family during the investigation will also be provided. The Family Advocate has provided children and families with support during the investigative segment and also throughout the prosecution of their case. The Family Advocate provides support and linkage for other direct services as well.

• What needs improvement? It would be ideal if all children and families would complete trauma based therapy.
• Plans for improving? Each child and non-offending family member is already referred for therapy. Program coordinator will implement a follow-up policy to remind families to schedule appointments.
• Other note(s): The Cricket Center has switched to a web-based customer satisfaction survey. This outcome measurement tool provides a brief survey at the start of services and also an exit survey. This will help determine what services need to improve and what is being done well.

Victims and families of child sexual abuse or assault, acute child physical abuse, and victims of criminal neglect

Impact of Incarceration