PFSA Expands Training with Online Course for 'Mandated Reporters' of Child Abuse and Neglect

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance (PFSA) has expanded the availability of training for mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect by launching an online training program.

The online training is specifically designed as an "additional option for professionals who already have had live, face-to-face training and are seeking a refresher or an update," according to PFSA Executive Director Angela M. Liddle.

The training is available by going to the PFSA Web site at http://www.pa-fsa.org/ and

clicking on "Mandated Reporters" and then choosing "Online Training Course."

Mandated reporters are people who frequently come into contact with children in the course of performing their jobs and are required by law to report abuse and neglect. They include doctors and nurses, health and social service workers, teachers and school employees, law enforcement authorities, and members of the clergy.

"The idea is to provide maximum flexibility and access to self-paced training 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Liddle said. "We think this is a logical supplement to the live training programs we provide throughout the state.

"Our goal is to make sure we have as many well-trained reporters as possible.  This is how we do our part to protect the children of Pennsylvania."

The online training provides an overview of the Child Protective Services Law and covers the definition of child abuse in Pennsylvania; how to recognize, respond to, and report suspected abuse or neglect; and how to deal with non-abuse concerns. It also covers the legal responsibilities of and protections for mandated reporters, and the penalties for willful failure to report.

The online course costs $75 and takes about two hours to complete on average. Participants who earn a grade of 70 percent or higher receive a certificate.  For an additional cost, trainees can earn continuing education units through the University of Pittsburgh's School of Social Work.

PFSA presented 294 live training sessions throughout Pennsylvania during its 2008-09 program year, working through schools, early childhood education centers, religious institutions, and social service agencies. These sessions provided face-to-face training for 7,880 mandated reporters.

PFSA also works with affiliated member agencies across Pennsylvania to provide information, educational materials, and programs that teach and support good parenting practices.

For more information, visit the PFSA Web site at www.pa-fsa.org.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance