Reporting Abuse

"The law requires anyone who has cause to suspect that a child is (or is at risk of being) harmed in certain ways to report that child's situation to the county department of social services."


Janet Mason
Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect in North Carolina


RESOURCES


Reporting Child Sexual Abuse

When and How to File a Report

Facing the Difficulties of Speaking Up

What Might Happen After a Report Is Filed
Q. Who do I call if I suspect child abuse or neglect?

A. If the possible abuse or neglect took place in Wilkes County, call the Wilkes County Department of Social Services at 336-651-7490.

Q. What if a child is in immediate danger?

A. Call 911.

Q. What if I don't have proof?

A. Call anyway. North Carolina law requires you to report anytime you have "cause to suspect" abuse or neglect has occurred.

Q. Who is required to report child abuse and neglect?

A. All adults and institutions in North Carolina are required to report, not just professionals like doctors and teachers. 

Q. Do I have to give my name when I call?

A. You will be asked to give your name, but your report will still be taken even if you don't give your name. The names of reporters are kept confidential.

Q. What will they ask me when I report?

A. Information you may be asked includes:
  • Your reason for reporting
  • The child's name and the name of other children in the household
  • The present location of the child
  • The suspected perpetrator's name, if known
  • A description of what you have seen and heard, includes dates, observations and witnesses
  • Any agencies already involved with the family
  • Your name and address.

Q. What happens after I make my report?

A. After your report, DSS will decide whether or not an investigation will be done, based on state requirements. If intervention is warranted, DSS will investigate within 24 hours in cases of abuse and 72 hours in cases of neglect. The investigation may include a visit to the child’s home and school as well as interviews with others who are in regular contact with the child. 

Q. Will I find out what happened with my report?

A. DSS will let you know in writing within five days if your report has been accepted for investigation. You will also be told if your report has been referred to law enforcement. If your report is accepted, you will receive another written notification from DSS at the conclusion of their investigation.

Q. Can I get in trouble if the abuse is not proved?

A. No, so long as you made the report in good faith.

Q. Can I get in trouble if I don't report?

A. There is no criminal penalty in North Carolina for not reporting, but a child may suffer needlessly if you don't do your duty. There may be professional repercussions if you learned about the abuse as part of your work.

If a Child Confides in You

Remain calm, listen carefully and be reassuring. Let the child know, "It's not your fault."


RESOURCES


What Should I Do After a Child Tells
A child who wants to talk about abuse is counting on you to do the right thing. It's important that you remain calm and in control.

DO
  • Assure privacy as best you can.
  • Listen carefully to what the child is saying.
  • Let the child do the talking.
  • Take notes.
  • Tell the child the abuse is not his or her fault.
  • Report the abuse.

DO NOT
  • Interrogate the child. Your job is to listen to what the child wants to tell you, not to investigate.
  • Suggest answers.
  • Ask leading, "Yes or No" or "Why" questions.
  • Promise you won't tell.
  • Ask the child to repeat what they've said to you or anyone else. Make the call and let the investigators do their work.