What is the purpose of follow-up with victims after initial reporting?

• A. To assess ongoing safety, needs, provide resources, and maintain engagement; monitor for re-traumatization or new risks.
• B. To re-interrogate until confession.
• C. To withdraw support.
• D. To close the case.

Answer: (A)

Follow-up with victims after initial reporting centers on maintaining safety and supporting healing by staying connected to assess ongoing safety, identify needs, provide resources, and keep survivors engaged in the process. This step recognizes that a survivor’s situation can change: new risks may appear, housing or financial stress can shift, access to medical or mental health care may be needed, and emotional support remains important. Regular, respectful follow-up helps update safety plans, connect them with services, and reduce the chance of revictimization by showing they have sustained support.

Re-interrogating to extract a confession is not appropriate and can re-traumatize the survivor, undermining trust and safety. Withdrawing support or prematurely closing the case ignores ongoing needs and safety concerns, which can leave the survivor vulnerable.