I need to report child abuse/neglect?

Question

I need to report child abuse/neglect, who are the best people to call?

Answer 1

Call Child protective services. If it is going on right now call 911, immediately.

Answer 2

Your state must have a Department of Children Services or a similar such name.

Consult your blue pages in the phone book. You will find the right dept there.

I would not call the police unless there is very bad conspicuous abuse. These state agencies are in the end tougher than the police who are only for emergencies, not family problems.

I just don't think they would give the child what he needs most. But they could on the other hand refer the case to the state agency however.

Answer 3

The legal mandate only requires reporting suspected abuse you become aware of through the ordinary course of your job. You are not a mandated reporter for your neighbors, your child's friend, etc. You are on your own to decide whether or not you have a personal, moral mandate. \ That's a lot tougher, I know. At work it's not your responsibility to decide whether or not it's true, or consider the possible consequences to all involved. You see a cigarette burn, you report. At home, you think somebody is beating a kid, you worry that if you call and SS investigates, the old man beats both kids and the wife for causing trouble! The big issue for me is my lack of confidence in the ability of overworked or otherwise imperfect social workers to make the right call.

Answer 4

local police if it's happening right now or the dept of children and family services.

Answer 5

child protective services

Answer 6

Phone the police, they will direct you, But make sure you are not doing this maliciously, or you could be charged or sued.

Answer 7

Your local wefare office.OR sheriffs department

Answer 8

DUH---911