What does the 'Duty to Report' under the APD-Zero Tolerance policy entail?

The 'Duty to Report' under the APD-Zero Tolerance policy is a mandatory requirement, meaning that staff are legally obligated to report any suspicions of abuse or neglect that they may encounter in their professional roles. This responsibility is critical because it helps ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals served by the agency. By establishing a clear and mandatory reporting obligation, the policy aims to create a proactive environment where any potential instances of abuse are addressed immediately, safeguarding those who may be at risk.

This mandatory requirement reinforces the agency's commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of persons with disabilities, ensuring that concerns are taken seriously and investigated appropriately. The seriousness of this obligation is reflected in the protocols that guide reporting, which are designed to facilitate a safe and effective process for addressing potential harm.

In contrast, the other options suggest a lack of accountability or urgency around reporting. For instance, a voluntary requirement would fail to compel action and could lead to underreporting of critical incidents, while discussing concerns with peers or an informal process might not ensure that necessary actions are taken to protect individuals from harm.