Youth Protection

Protecting Our Future: Youth Protection Office

At the University of Arkansas, the safety and well-being of young individuals are our top priority.

We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all youth. Our comprehensive youth protection program ensures all compliance components are met, including adherence to legal, ethical, and institutional standards. This commitment guarantees that everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and care, and that all concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly.

Incident Reporting Form

Why Youth Protection Matters

Youth, especially in educational settings, are vulnerable to various risks, including abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Protecting youth is a shared responsibility that involves creating safe spaces, fostering open communication, and having clear procedures in place for handling concerns.
We recognize these challenges and actively work to empower students, staff, and families with the tools and knowledge to stay safe and prevent harm.

Our Commitment to Safety

We uphold the highest standards in youth protection, focusing on:

  • Creating a Safe Environment: We maintain strict policies to ensure students are safe from bullying, harassment, isolation, and violence.
  • Clear Reporting Channels: We provide accessible and confidential ways for students, staff, and parents to report any concerns or incidents related to safety.
  • Ongoing Education and Training: We offer resources and training to staff, teaching them how to recognize warning signs of abuse and how to respond appropriately.
  • Support for Affected Individuals: We provide support to all that require assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Once a report is made, our team reviews the situation confidentially, investigates if needed, and ensures that appropriate steps are taken to protect the youth involved.

Yes, you can report incidents anonymously through our online reporting form.

Abuse can come in many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. If you're unsure, it's always better to report any suspicion or concern.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, need more information, or want to discuss specific concerns, please reach out to our Youth Protection Manager:

Melissa Graham
479-575-4432
youthprotection@uark.edu

Together, We Protect What Matters Most.