After receiving a report of abuse allegations, how long does DSS have to provide written notice to the person making the report?

In the context of responding to abuse allegations, DSS (Department of Social Services) has a specific timeframe within which they must provide written notice to the person who made the report. The requirement to issue this notification within five working days is established to ensure that those who report abuse are kept informed about the status of their allegations. This timely communication encourages continued engagement from the reporter, who may have crucial information or further insights to contribute during the investigation process.

This time frame is designed to balance the need for thorough investigation and the legal rights of all parties involved. By stipulating a five-day period, it also helps manage the expectations of reporters, allowing them to understand that their reports are taken seriously and handled by the authorities in a prompt manner. Keeping the timeframe shorter than options like 10 days or 1 month is essential for maintaining the integrity of the investigation and addressing any potential ongoing risk for the child involved.