Every Action Against Violence campaign post is intended to inform you about forms of violence and their causes. We will be focusing on child abuse and neglect in October, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month. What we want you to know right now is how to protect a child that you suspect is being abused. You need to know:
- When to call
- Who to call
- What happens when you call
- Your legal requirement
When Do I Call?
You should contact authorities when:
- You suspect abuse that puts the security and development of any child under 19 in danger.
- A child under 12 is left unsupervised for an unreasonable amount of time.
Where can I anonymously report suspected abuse of a child?
- Call 1-888-99-ABUSE (1-888-992-2873)
- After Hours Emergency Services 1-800-442-9799
What Happens When I Report Suspected Abuse?
- You will not have to give your name or any other personal information.
- You will be asked questions about what you have seen.
- The information is reviewed to determine if it should be investigated by Child Protection Services.
- If it is determined that the child is being physically or emotionally abused and/or neglected, action will be taken to protect the child.
- Services are focused on the best interest of the child first, and a focus on keeping families together.
It Is Your Legal Obligation
You are legally obligated to report suspected child abuse. Not reporting suspected abuse could leave a child in extreme danger.
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This information is summarized from the New Brunswick Department of Social Development pages: “Frequently Asked Questions – Abuse” and “Child Protection”