Forensic Interviewer- to apply email resume to director@bridgeofhopecac.org.
The mission of the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center is to ensure that suspected victims of child abuse are not revictimized by the system designed to protect them. The Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center coordinates a multidisciplinary team response to allegations of child abuse and neglect in a safe and child-focused setting.
SUMMARY OF THE POSITION
A Forensic Interviewer is tasked with obtaining a statement from a child in a developmentally sensitive, unbiased and truth-seeking manner that will support accurate and fair decision making in the criminal justice and child welfare systems through the use of nationally accredited forensic interview practices. An advocate provides on-site and follow-up advocacy to non-offending caregivers of children alleging abuse. Advocates coordinate with a team of responders to assure appropriate referrals for services are secured.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Forensic Interviewer:
· Successfully complete forensic interviewing training designed for professionals who are responsible for the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases and working in a Child Advocacy Center setting;
· Conduct forensic interviews of child victims of abuse as requested by law enforcement, Health and Human Services and or the prosecuting attorney;
· Assist in observing and providing input during forensic interviews conducted by other trained forensic interviewers;
· Participate in quarterly peer reviews on a local and statewide basis;
· Provide testimony in court hearings;
· Participate in the multi-disciplinary case planning of involved cases
Advocate:
· Provide crisis response, outreach and support to children and families;
· Complete intake information and secure appropriate forms for service;
· Assist families in accessing resources beneficial to their needs;
· Contact non-offending caregiver within three days after the initial visit and complete follow-up contact(s) at least monthly or as needed;
· Maintain timely, thorough and accurate case documentation to include all contacts with a victim/caregiver;
· Track monthly statistical information as required or directed;
· Assist the MDT with measuring effectiveness and addressing identified system improvements
Other Duties:
· Serve as a team leader for SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) communication and community education (nursing experience not required)
· Assist the Coordinator in coordination of child abuse cases required under Nebraska State Statute, National Children’s Alliance Accreditation Standards and Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center policies.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS
· Knowledge and understanding of issues related to the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases
· Knowledge and understanding of issues related to the disclosure process of child victims
· Knowledge and understanding of issues related to memory and suggestibility, as well as age appropriate language in conducting interviews with child victims
· Must respect and maintain confidentiality
· Ability to work in a stressful environment with a difficult subject matter
· Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
· Strong organizational skills
· Self-starter/self-motivator
QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A bachelor’s degree and/or experience is preferred in the areas of social work, criminal justice or a related field.
Experience: Must possess a high degree of communication and interpersonal skills; strong ability to communicate and interact with children and individuals in crisis; knowledge of community resources; collaboration with medical personnel and team members to support the SANE (sexual assault nurse examiner) program for victims of sexual assault; computer skills; knowledge, experience and expertise in the area of child abuse/neglect and family violence is beneficial.
OTHER
· Must submit to a thorough criminal background check
· Must have access to a vehicle, possess a valid Nebraska Driver’s License and proof of vehicle insurance
· Position involves out of town travel
· Must be willing to work flexible hours
· On-call responsibilities required
· Comply with all regulations and policies of the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center
· Demonstrate professional behaviors in support of the mission of the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center to promote a positive image of the organization in the community
· Direct services supersede all other duties
· Includes other duties as assigned
