You Can't Coach That

Monday, April 02, 2007

Much progress has been made in recent years in protecting those in our society who are in a position of vulnerability. For example, there are strict procedures in place to deal with allegations of abuse in the work place or in schools. These procedures are often mandatory and in the most serious cases require that the matter be referred to the police. I think that these measures are necessary and go a long way to ensuring that people in a position of power cannot misuse this power.

Here comes the but…..

It is my considered opinion that there is often a lack of balance in these matters. An allegation that is made and investigated can have one of two resolutions - either the allegation is found to have substance and the next stage of the process is commenced or the allegation is found to be baseless and ... well therein lies the problem as I see it.

In my experience (both personal and anecdotal) there is generally very little in the way of justice for someone against whom a false allegation is made. It seems that everyone is very relieved that they do not have to deal any further with what could be a difficult situation so the matter gets dropped quite quickly. This, often despite the fact that someone has had their reputation damaged, not mention been subjected to a degree of emotional turmoil.

Of course in the case of very serious allegations, the person who made the unfounded complaint would be dealt with in some way. I would argue however that in most cases this pales into insignificance compared to the impact of the investigation on the accused party. In cases which are prima facie less serious, there is often nothing done at all despite the fact that a reputation has still been damaged.

The bottom line is that mud sticks and people will remember that an accusation has been made against a person and some will wonder whether there was in fact something to the allegations. I would suggest that an groundless allegation would not follow the accuser to the same extent.

I am not saying for one minute that mandatory investigation or reporting should not take place or should be watered down in any way. This would not be good for anyone. I am saying however that specific measures need to be communicated regarding the consequences of a false accusation. Victims deserve to be protected regardless of what made them a victim.

Rant over.