(210 ILCS 30/16) (from Ch. 111 1/2, par. 4176)

Sec. 16. Within the appropriation available, the Department shall conduct a continuing education and training program for State and local staff, persons and officials required to report, the general public, and other persons engaged in or intending to engage in the prevention, identification, and treatment of resident abuse and neglect. The program shall be designed to encourage the fullest degree of reporting of known and suspected resident abuse and neglect, and to improve communication, cooperation, and coordination among all agencies in the identification, prevention, and treatment of resident abuse and neglect. The program shall inform the general public and professionals of the nature and extent of abuse and neglect and their responsibilities, obligations, powers and immunity from liability under this Act. It may include publicity and dissemination of information on the existence and number of the 24 hour, State-wide, toll-free telephone service to assist persons seeking assistance and to receive reports of known and suspected abuse and neglect.

(Source: P.A. 83-1530.)