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FAQ

  • Can I bring my child in for a medical exam or forensic interview without an open law enforcement or Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) case?
    No. Though we want to make sure your child's body is safe, our medical exams and interviews must be done as the result of an investigation.
  • What is Mending Hearts Child Safety Center?
    Mending Hearts Child Safety Center, MHCSC, is a community-based facility which uses a multidisciplinary approach to reduce trauma to child victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect. Our team collaborates with medical, mental health, prosecutorial, child protective service, and law enforcement in order to best serve young victims.
  • Why did an investigator say my child needed a forensic interview?
    If your child is needing a forensic interview, a report was called into the child abuse hotline because there was suspected abuse or neglect or they may have been a witness to violence.
  • Who is a mandated reporter?
    In Arkansas, as of July 31, 2023, anyone 18 years of age and older is considered a mandated reporter. An individual who is a "mandated reporter" under Arkansas law must immediately notify the Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-482-5964) if he or she: Has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has: Been subject to child maltreatment; Died as a result of child maltreatment; or Died suddenly and unexpectedly. Observes a child being subject to conditions or circumstances that would reasonably result in child maltreatment.
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