The report will be evaluated to determine whether there is enough information to warrant or allow further investigation. A social worker will visit with the child(ren) and the child(ren)'s parents when necessary. If the report indicates there is imminent danger to the child(ren), a social worker will respond to the report as soon as possible, within 24 hours. However, if the report indicates that there is no imminent danger at the time of the call but that there is enough information to indicate the report should be investigated further, a social worker will generally visit the child(ren) and the child(ren)'s parents within ten days, depending on the urgency of the safety and service needs of the family.
Many people are under the misconception that if a family is reported for child abuse, the parent(s) will always be arrested and the child(ren) will be taken away from the family. Although this may occur in cases of serious abuse, families are usually referred to services, such as:
- Counseling
- Parenting classes
- Public assistance agencies
- Other community resources
The goal of child protective agencies is to try to keep the family unit intact unless the child is in danger. The goals of all of us are to protect our children and help them grow up healthy and happy.
(FAQ2327)
