A child tells you that their mother is an alcoholic who frequently slaps and punches them. They beg you not to tell anyone, as they are afraid that if their mother finds out they have told you, she will beat them again.

You are conflicted; you do not want to child to be endangered and you know you are required to report the disclosure, but you feel that this could contravene privacy legislation. You are not sure which legislation you should comply with.

What should you tell a child when a conflict like this arises?