Welcome to Our How To Report Area

What Do You Do If A Child Discloses To You

1. Support the child and the decision to tell
2. Make it clear they did the right thing by telling
3. Respect the child's privacy
4. REPORT

How Can I Help?

Protecting children from abuse is everyone's responsibility. Only by working together as a community can we begin the process of eliminating this crime.

If you suspect a child is a victim of physical or sexual abuse, you should:

1. Report the suspected abuse
2. Offer love and support
3. Keep your own emotions under control so the child does not become frightened
4. Stress that it is not the child's fault
5. Obtain counseling for the child

Any one who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected should call 410-713-3497. The law provides immunity from any civil liability or criminal penalty when a report is made in good faith.

What To Expect When Calling In A Referral:

1. Your name, address and contact number
2. The name of the child/children that you have concerns regarding including date of birth, approximate age and school if applicable
3. Who the child lives with and address - if exact address is not know a description of the house
4. If there are any other children residing in that home and their approximate age and school if applicable
5. Specific concerns regarding the child/children

What Happens After a Report Has Been Made?

If Child Protective Services decides to investigate the case, they must initiate an investigation within 24 hours for abuse and within 72 hours in cases of suspected neglect. A full assessment will be made to determine future actions involving the child and the family. Help may be provided to the family in the form of counseling, referrals to other helping agencies, emergency foster care services, intensive in-home services, and/or help with housing, finances, medical needs, and child care.