Language Script for Perpetration Disclosures

Support Worker Script: Disclosure of Sexual Perpetration

This framework provides guidance for support workers responding to a client's disclosure of sexual perpetration. The approach balances validation, safety, professional boundaries, and appropriate action.

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Be present, calm, and non-judgmental in the moment of disclosure.

Remember: You do not have to fix this. Your role is to listen and where possible provide an honest response and explain that you will have to report to a manager. You do not have to provide next steps or resources, only listen as a safe person. 

What it means to "sit with" a disclosure

• Stay grounded and emotionally neutral
• Avoid visible signs of discomfort or shock
• Hold space without rushing to problem-solve or react

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Practical communication skills

• Body language: Open posture, steady eye contact, calm presence
• Tone and word choices: Even, matter-of-fact, non-judgmental
• Pausing and listening without interruption

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Immediate Response: Acknowledgement Without Judgement

Acknowledge the disclosure calmly and without visible shock or judgement.

Validate the client's decision to disclose whilst maintaining appropriate boundaries around the behaviour itself.

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Example sentences:

"Thank you for telling me this. I understand this was difficult to share."

"I'm listening. You can continue when you're ready."

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Validating without affirming harmful behaviour

"Thank you for telling me that. I can hear that this is something you've been holding onto.”

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Explain Professional Responsibilities

The support worker clearly explains their mandatory reporting obligations and what happens next.

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Example sentences:

"I want to be transparent with you about what happens from here."

"I need to be clear about my professional responsibilities when someone tells me this information."

"This means I will need to share what you've told me with [management/direct supervisor] because there is a risk of harm."

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Explaining reporting whilst maintaining dignity:

"I also want to be clear about something. There are some types of disclosures where I may have a legal or ethical responsibility to act, especially if someone is at risk of harm. That doesn't mean I'll judge you, my goal is to understand, support you, and help us work safely together."

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Assess Immediate Risk and Safety

Determine whether there is current risk to any person, particularly children or vulnerable individuals.

• Follow your companies risk assessment protocol

This may include understanding the basic nature of what occurred without conducting an investigation or interview.

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Example sentences:

"Can you help me understand a bit more about what you've told me?"

"When did this happen?" 

"Is this something that happened once or on multiple occasions?"

"Are you currently in contact with the person involved?"

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Document the Disclosure

Documents the disclosure accurately and objectively in the client's file.

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Documentation principles:

Be factual:

• Use phrases like "I observed" or "it was reported"
• Write clear objective sentences
• Use non-judgemental language

Be mindful of sensationalised language:

• Assume the client or loved one will read this when you document

Important Considerations

Do not:

• Conduct a detailed forensic interview (this is for police/investigators)
• Promise confidentiality
• Express personal judgement or moral condemnation
• Minimise or excuse the behaviour
• Assume the client is lying or exaggerating
• Use phrases like "That's not normal" or "You can't think like that"

Do:

• Remain calm and professional
• Approach with curiosity and affirm dignity
• Avoid judgement, shock, or assumptions
• Focus on immediate safety
• Follow mandatory reporting requirements
• Document thoroughly
• Seek supervision promptly after the session
• Prioritise victim safety above therapeutic relationship

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Self-Care for Support Workers

Receiving disclosures of sexual perpetration can be distressing. 

• Debrief with a supervisor or colleague after the session

• Access clinical supervision
• Be aware of vicarious trauma
• Follow workplace support protocols

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