Why Must You Report Child Abuse?

When Do You Report?

Child abuse should be reported when when someone has a reasonable cause to suspect child abuse.

Who Do You Report To?

The report must be made to a child protective agency. This can be a county welfare department, probation department, or police department.

Can A Report Be Given Annonymously?

Only mandated reporters (health practitioners, lawyers, clergy, film processors, child protective agencies, child care custodians) must identify themselves when reporting. Anybody else can make an annonymous report.

What Happens After The Report Is Made?

Child Protective Agencies are responsible for investigating the report. Emergency Responce (from the child welfare agency) will work with law enforcement to determine if abuse is in fact occuring. When abuse has occurred ER emphasises intervention to ensure the safety of the child and keep the family together. Removing a child from the home is done only when the child cannot remain there safely. Services range from counseling to the placement of a family care worker in the home. If the child does have to be removed they are first tried to be placed with the non-custodial parent, relatives, foster homes and group homes in that order and depending on the specific needs of the child. The courts and the parents will work together for reunification as soon as possible. If the abuse is outside of the home an investigation will be conducted to see if the child is protected within the home.