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Reporting Child Abuse

If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, call 1-800-649-5285 to report it. Our 24-hour Child Protection Line makes it easy for you to share your concerns about a child with a trained social worker.

Your call could protect a child, get help for a family, and may even save a child’s life.

Who must report child abuse?

Certain people are required by Vermont law to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect. These mandated reporters are legally required to report their suspicions to the Family Services Division of DCF—within 24 hours.

As Vermont adults, however, we all have a moral obligation to keep our children safe. With this comes the civic duty to report suspected child abuse and neglect.

How do I make a Report?

If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, call 1-800-649-5285 to report it —24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What Information Should I Have On Hand?

Try to have as much information on hand as possible (e.g., the names of the child’s parents/caretakers; the child’s name, age, and location; and the nature and extent of the injuries or allegations of abuse).

What Happens When I Report?

A social worker will question you about the child's situation, record the information you provide, ask you to complete a written report (pdf, 24kb) and, in some cases, ask you to gather more information.

What If I Am Not Sure That What I Suspect Is Abuse?

Please call us for advice if you are not sure whether a report is warranted. Remember, you do not have to prove that a child has been abused. That is our responsibility.

You may also want to seek our advice if you are thinking about telling the parents that you reported as, in some cases, this could endanger the child and hinder the investigation.

What Happens Next?

We will determine whether to accept your report for investigation. To be accepted, it must allege abuse or neglect as defined by state law.

What Happens If It's Accepted?

We will typically begin an investigation within 72 hours; however, we will start sooner if a child is in immediate danger.

Will My Report Be Kept Confidential?

We will not divulge your identity unless you give us your permission to do so; however, you should be aware that your identity could become known if the case goes to court.

Can I Be Sued?

Vermont law provides you with immunity from civil or criminal liability as long as your report was made in good faith.

What About HIPAA?

The HIPAA privacy rule allow covered entities to disclose protected health information in order to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect, if the report is made to a government authority that is authorized by law to receive such reports.

Where Can I Get More Information?

  • Read the statute online (Chapter 49, Title 33 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated).

  • Request Mandated Reporter training for your organization or group by contacting your local Family Services District Office.

  • Read the Frequently-Asked-Questions. For answers to some of the questions we get most often, please click here. 

Mandated Reporters

  • Chiropractor, dentist, licensed practical nurse, medical examiner, mental health professional, osteopath, physician, physician’s assistant, psychologist, pharmacist, registered nurse, surgeon, or any other health care provider;
  • Hospital administrator, intern, or resident physician in any hospital in the state;
  • School guidance counselor, librarian, principal, superintendent, or teacher;
  • Child care worker;
  • Police officer or probation worker;s
  • Social worker;
  • Member of the clergy;
  • Residential and non-residential camp administrator, counselor, or owner; and
  • As of January 1, 2009, emergency medical personnel (24 V.S.A.) and any individual regularly employed by a school district or contracted and paid by a school district to provide student services for five or more hours per week during the school year.


PROTECTING CHILDREN  IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS. KEEP OUR CHILDREN SAFE.

 

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