Safeguarding Kids Online and Offline: A Courageous Conversation with Jacob Stapledon

Child abuse remains one of the most urgent and under-recognized crises facing families today. In this powerful episode of Profiles in LGBTQ Courage, host Rick Koonce speaks with Jacob Stapledon, Community Engagement and Education Manager at Children s Cove, a child advocacy center on Cape Cod. Together, they shed light on the staggering reality of abuse, why LGBTQ youth are disproportionately affected, and the critical role that community members can play in protecting children.

Jacob shares sobering statistics, including the fact that 90% of children are abused by someone they know, and that LGBTQ youth often face the unique challenge of  double disclosure  revealing both their abuse and their identity. He explains how Children s Cove provides coordinated, trauma-informed care to help children tell their stories once, rather than reliving trauma repeatedly.

Listeners will also hear practical guidance on recognizing warning signs, safeguarding children online, and taking action when something feels wrong.

Key Takeaways:

• LGBTQ youth face unique risks and barriers to disclosure
• 90% of abuse comes from someone the child knows
• Online exploitation is rising rapidly post-COVID
• Parents and communities must stay engaged and speak up

Learn more and access resources at childrenscove.org.

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For more information, visit the PFLAG Cape Cod website: https://www.pflagcapecod.org/podcasts.html

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