How to Report Abuse

If you suspect that a child has been abused, it is your responsibility to report. Certain persons, especially those with care giving roles, are mandated reporters, but all adults should feel responsible for protecting the children of our communities.

The Hotline Number is 1-800-392-3738.

You do not need proof of abuse—just good faith concern about a child’s welfare.

Be prepared to tell the hotline who the child is, where they live and/or go to school, their age (if you know it), and what you are concerned about. Other information will be helpful, but is not essential.

It is helpful, also, if you are willing to give your name and telephone number so that investigators can get more information from you later, BUT you may report anonymously if you want.

The hotline reaches the Department of Social Services in Jefferson City who, in turn, determines which county has jurisdiction over the reported incident. Local agencies are, then, contacted to begin investigations,

An initial investigation helps determine whether the child needs to be brought to Children’s Center for an interview and, possibly, for a medical examination. The investigators schedule an appointment at Children’s Center to proceed with the investigation.

As a reporter of suspected child abuse, you may not always know the outcomes of investigations, but, hopefully, you will feel better about trying to enlist help for a child you think is being mistreated.