Under the Zero Tolerance policy, what should staff do if they witness an incident of abuse?

Under the Zero Tolerance policy, it is essential for staff to report incidents of abuse immediately to a supervisor. This requirement is grounded in the fundamental commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with disabilities. The Zero Tolerance policy is designed to create a safe environment that actively prevents abuse and neglect, highlighting the importance of swift action whenever abuse is observed.

Reporting an incident right away allows for prompt investigation and intervention, protecting vulnerable individuals from further harm. It also ensures that the agency can take appropriate steps to address the situation, provide support to the affected person, and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. The policy emphasizes that everyone has a duty to act and that ignoring abuse or discussing it casually undermines the safety protocols established for the protection of individuals with disabilities.

In essence, by mandating immediate reporting to a supervisor, the Zero Tolerance policy fosters a culture of accountability and reinforces the seriousness with which abuse and neglect are treated within the organization.