What can you do if you believe a child is being abused or neglected?

What can you do if you believe a child is being abused or neglected?



Report, report, report. Everyone has the right and responsibility to report any incidence of suspected child abuse at any time. Actual knowledge of abuse is not required; all you need is “reasonable cause, suspicion, or belief” based on your observations. Information to support your concern may include your firsthand observations or beliefs, your professional training or experience, or statements made by the child or parent.
Having only limited information about your suspicion should not prevent you from making a report. Remember, you do not have to be “right” in your suspicions; you simply need to have a heightened and rational concern for the safety and well-being of a child.
Also, all states have laws that protect reporters from legal liability as long as reports are made in “good faith.”



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