CHILD PROTECTION LAWS
R 400.11115
ACTION TO BE TAKEN TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT
1. Beechwood Hills Camp Director shall make an oral report to the Children's & Adult Protective Service within immediately upon suspicion or observation or reporting of possible/suspected child abuse. (All people are mandated to be responsible for reporting child abuse, not just the Director.)
2. Within 24 hours a written report shall be made to the Children's & Adult Protective Services (which can be done online DHS3200). A written report shall contain the name of the child and a description of the abuse or neglect. If possible, the report shall contain the names and addresses of the child's parents/guardian, or the persons with whom the child resides and the child's age. The report shall contain any other information available that might establish the cause of abuse or neglect and the way it occurred.
3. If a camper seems to be injured, medical treatment will be given by appropriate medical personnel.
CHILD ABUSE POLICY AND PROCEDURE
The following is in effect at Beechwood Hills Camp:
1. Upon arrival of camper, the nurse shall screen all campers as to their physical condition. Note any bruises, cuts, or markings on the child's body.
2. The counselor shall also watch for any signs of child abuse or neglect.
3. The waterfront staff shall also watch for any signs of child abuse or neglect.
4. If child abuse is suspected, follow the chain of command in reporting. Counselor to Camp Manager to Director to Camp Administrator.
5. Take camper to nurse to document bruises, cuts or markings on the child's body.
6. If camper confides in you of having been abused or neglected, only relate this information to those in authority.
7. Camper's records and applications shall be kept confidential. No one shall have access to the camp and camper's file except the Camp Administrator, Director, Camp Manager, or Nurse.
8. The campers have a right to review and screen their own record.
9. If a staff member is being accused, he or she will be removed from all contact with campers immediately and sent home if appropriate. This would also be the discipline procedure. They would be barred from the camp pending the CPS and potential legal proceedings. Upon exoneration of any wrongdoings, they would be allowed to return for subsequent camp sessions.
Allegan County
Report Abuse & Neglect - 24/7 Hotline Children's & Adult Protective Services
(855) 444-3911
BWH 115
Revised 03/30/2025
By Alisha Bissell