Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at the Centre?

CACN is a child and family friendly centre, where children and youth come  to speak with specially trained interviewers about allegations of physical and sexual abuse, internet exploitation and the witnessing of violence. These interviews are video-taped and aid in the investigation.

What does the Centre look like?

It is a building located in a pretty residential neighbourhood, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Inside, the waiting rooms are filled with toys, books, magazines and rocking horses. Walls are decorated with murals and childrens paintings. The interview room has a discretely placed video camera and microphones that blend into the background.

Who interviews?

All interviews are done by specially trained professionals from Family and Children’s Services Niagara and/or Niagara Regional Police. Questions are asked in a non-threatening and non-leading manner. The interviewer moves at a pace that is comfortable and never tries to force a child to talk. When police are involved, they are in plain clothes.

Why are interviews video-taped?

In order to avoid multiple interviews by many professionals. These may also be used as evidence during legal proceedings.

How is the interview done?

Only one person is in the interview room with your child. Other team members may observe from the video recording room. Team members are specially trained to conduct child-friendly, forensic interviews.

How many times are children interviewed?

The goal is one time only. That way, the child does not have to repeat the details numerous times.

Are other people interviewed?

Children are interviewed individually, never together. Other people with knowledge, such as a parent or care giver, are interviewed separately, if needed.

Can I watch the interview?

No, only those people directly involved in the investigation are allowed to observe the interview. This is done to reduce possible stress and to provide a neutral, safe setting. You may bring a support person to wait with you.

What if I have questions?

Everyone receives support from CACN staff during their visit. Before and after the interview, you can ask questions or discuss concerns with the investigative team members.

What ages do you serve?

Children, up to and including age 15. If children are in the care of the  Society (Family and Children’s Services Niagara), this age limit does not necessarily apply. Family and Children’s Services is also known as our Regional Children’s Aid Society.

How are cases referred to the Centre?

Reports are made to Family and Children’s Services (FACS) Niagara or Niagara Regional Police. Their staff arrange an interview time at the Centre. People who suspect abuse have a legal duty to inform Family and Children's Services Niagara (our local Children's Aid Society).

What about the perpetrator?

That person never comes to the Centre.

Who can accompany a child or youth?

Non-offending family members or other care givers such as child and youth workers, social workers  or teachers can accompany the child.

What happens after the interview?

Members of the investigative team will be available to answer your questions and hear your concerns. Children of all ages may take home a teddy bear or a hand knit afghan. Families may be offered counselling provided at no charge through Family Counselling Centre Niagara.

What happens after the investigation?

The investigative team will review the evidence gathered. FACS personnel will address any ongoing child protection concerns, while the police will determine if grounds exist to lay criminal charges. If a charge is laid by the police, the decision to prosecute an accused person rests solely with the Crown Attorney’s Office.

Will my child have to testify?

Yes, your child may be required to testify. In these circumstances, child witnesses will be supported and assisted by staff from the Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP), who will help guide the child witness and caregivers through the court process and prepare them to testify. In some cases, the Crown Attorney will meet with child witnesses in advance to review their evidence, and VWAP staff may provide a tour of the courtroom and explain the role of the judge, Crown Attorney and defence counsel at an age appropriate level. The Crown Attorney may, however, ask the judge to allow a child to testify from a “child friendly” room via a closed circuit video monitor, away from the accused person. The Crown Attorney is responsible in determining the manner in which evidence is presented to the judge.

What is the benefit of a Child Advocacy Centre?

The environment is private, child-friendly and gentle.