Getting help in Austin, Texas

FAMILY VIOLENCE

I am a teacher/child care worker. What can I do?

Do you suspect or know that a child in your class is living in a violent home?

If so, there are several things you can do to provide support to that child.

Keep in mind that you may be the first person the child has talked with about their home situation; assuring them that abuse is not okay and that they are doing the right thing by talking with you is the extremely important. Since a large percentage of homes with spousal abuse also contain child abuse, it is essential that you assess the child for this.

Ask them if they have ever been hurt by either parent or caretaker, especially since it is sometimes the case that the victim of partner abuse is the perpetrator of child abuse. As is the law in the state of Texas, you are required to report any suspicion or knowledge of child abuse at 1-800-252-5400 (Child Protective Services).

If the child indicates that they are not being physically hurt but have witnessed the abuse and may be at risk of abuse themselves (either directly or as a result of the partner violence) you should also report this to Child Protective Services.

Be aware that it may not be appropriate to contact the parent of a child who has divulged information about violence in their home.

Often,, the victimized parent may be embarrassed and the family may follow a strict code of secrecy.

You do not want to endanger the child or the victimized parent by addressing the issue directly.

If you are unsure or just have questions do not hesitate to contact our office or that of the other resources listed here for further support.

What can I do in my classroom?

 

 
  I am the victim
  I am a child in the family
  I am a friend/neighbor
  I am a teacher
  I am an employer
  I am the abuser
My family is experiencing violence
I would like to

 

Legal Services Links:
Travis County Attorney's Office
Travis County District Attorney's Office
Legal Aid of Central Texas
Women's Advocacy Project

Social Services Links:
APD Victim Services
TCSO Victim Services
SafePlace: Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survival Center
Austin Child Guidance Center

Additional Resources:

Domestic Violence Hotlines and Resources

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Violence Against Women Office

Violence Agaianst Men and Women

Family Violence Awareness Page

Husband Battering

Child Abuse:

National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information

Prevent Child Abuse America

National Data Archive on Child Abuse and Neglect

Child Abuse Yellow Pages

Family Violence

Child Abuse

Traffic Accidents and Fatalities

Legal Support and Information