Intervention Services: CPT and SCAN
Our History and Purpose
Funding for the CPT (Child Protection Team) was awarded to Manatee Children Services in the early 1980s as part of a statewide effort to bring together local experts focused on protecting children. The CPT uses a team-based approach led by a specially trained pediatrician who works closely with law enforcement and the Florida Department of Children and Families to support child abuse investigations.
Our team helps evaluate reports of suspected abuse and neglect. Services may include medical exams and child-friendly forensic interviews that are carefully conducted to help children share vital information in a safe, non-leading way. We also look at family circumstances and provide recommendations to keep children safe. When possible, we work with caregivers to enhance their ability to provide a stable and supportive home.
During the year ending September 30, 2025, our team provided critical services to 476 children, including 333 medical exams, 291 forensic interviews, and 173 advocacy services. These services include courtroom and deposition support, referrals for basic needs, and connections to medical care and counseling for children affected by abuse, neglect, human trafficking, substance use, and domestic violence.
How We Save Lives
Child Protection Team services supplement the child protective investigation activities of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Our team may provide one or more of the following services:
- Medical diagnosis and evaluation of abuse with an expert testimony by a trained pediatrician
- Child and family assessments
- Multidisciplinary staffings
- Psychological evaluations
- Specialized and forensic interviews and expert testimony
- Expert court testimony
- Professional trainings
SCAN (Services to Children Abused by Non-Caregivers) provides intervention services to child sexual abuse victims in which the alleged perpetrator is a non-caregiver or another child. SCAN offers medical diagnoses and evaluation, forensic interviews, referral services, and case management to victims 0 to 17 years of age.
How to help our CPT and SCAN programs:
- Donations of diapers (all sizes), infant toys, socks (all sizes), shoes (all sizes), and underwear (all sizes) for the CPT “Kids Closet” to aid families coming in for interviews.
- Gift cards
- Monetary donations for ongoing needs of families seeking care.
MCS provides a full spectrum of programs serving over 12,000 children and families annually. Since its inception in 1977 as the Manatee County’s first and only emergency shelter for abused children in foster care, MCS has grown to offer programs in treatment, prevention, intervention, and residential services.
