When must a CPI see the parent/caregiver of the alleged child victim?

The requirement for a Child Protection Investigator (CPI) to see the parent or caregiver of an alleged child victim is established to ensure timely intervention and assessment in cases of possible abuse or neglect. This necessitates that the CPI must see the parent or caregiver on the same day as the child or within 24 hours.

This time frame is critical because it allows for an immediate understanding of the family dynamics and the caregiving environment. By interacting with the parent or caregiver shortly after assessing the child, the CPI can gather important information that may influence the investigation and any subsequent actions to ensure the child's safety.

Seeing the parent or caregiver within this timeframe aligns with best practices in child protection to facilitate prompt intervention and prevent further harm to the child. Delays beyond 24 hours can jeopardize the welfare of the child, create further risk, or impair the investigation, making this time limit essential to effective child protection measures.