How to report suspected child abuse or neglect

How to report suspected child abuse
Lexington Herald-Leader, March 18, 2007, pg. A12.

If you believe a child is being abused or neglected, the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services suggest you call the Child Protection Hot Line at 1-800-752-6200, or the Protection and Permanency office in you county. The cabinet's Web site lists some answers to frequently asked questions:

Who should report suspected abuse or neglect of a child?
Anyone who has reasonable cause to believe a child is being physically abused, sexually abused, neglected or is dependent.What information do you need to provide when reporting abuse?

The following basic information is requested:
* The child's name, sex and approximate age
* The name of the person believed to have been responsible for the abuse or neglect
* A description of the injury, neglect or threatened harm to the child
* The current location of the child; day care or school; home address
* Any immediate risk to the child or to a worker going out to ensure the child's safety (i.e., guns)
* The reporter's name and identifying information only if the caller wishes to give that information; anonymous reports are accepted and investigated.

Can a person reporting abuse be sued?
The reporter is given civil and criminal immunity from prosecution as long as the reporter acted in good faith. The Department for Community Based Services releases the name of a reporter only upon the order of a judge.

Can a social worker just take a child out of the home?
No. Only the police have that authority if they feel that a child is in imminent danger. A judge can issue an emergency custody order for a child to be picked up and held for 72 hours before a hearing. The Kentucky Revised Statute allows a hospital administrator or a physician treating a child to hold that child without a court order, but they must request an emergency order within 72 hours.

If I report someone for child abuse, do I have to give my name?
No. Abuse reports can be made anonymously, however in order to follow up with additional information, callers are encouraged to identify themselves.

What happens to children who are being abused if it is reported?
Reports of child abuse will be investigated by the Department for Community Based Services. If substantiated, children may be removed from the home and placed in foster care until their family situation can be evaluated and corrected. Treatment services are provided, which may make it possible for children to remain in the home.

How to report suspected child abuse
If you believe a child is being abused or neglected, the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services suggests you call the Child Protection Hot Line at 1-800-752-6200, or the Protection and Permanency office in your county.