Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1-800-392-3738 – If you suspect child abuse, neglect or exploitation you may report it to DSS. Anonymous reports are accepted from individuals not mandated by occupation to report but please consider identifying yourself so that Children’s Division staff may contact you during or after the investigation.
When making a report, have the following information available:
| · Name of child | · Name of parent(s) |
| · Name of the alleged abuser | · Where the child can be located |
Signs of Safety questions are used to screen calls.
You will also be asked:
- What are the worrying behaviors you are calling about today?
- What happened to the child/children as a result of the worrying behaviors?
- What are you most worried will happen to the child/children if nothing in the family changes?
- What actions have been taken other than making this call?
- Is there anything going on in or around that family that would make this situation more difficult to handle?
- What are the best aspects of the adult’s care for the child/children?
- What needs to happen differently for you to be confident the children are safe enough?
- On a scale of 0-10 where 10 means the child is completely safe right now and 0 means that if no action is taken, the child could be seriously hurt or injured in the next 24 hours, where would you rate this family?
You can call the local Children’s Divison office to discuss your concern. They can advise you whether or not to call the hotline. They can also give you advice that might help you help the family in crisis.
Err on the side of over-reporting. If you have the thought, “Maybe I should call…..” – DO!
Domestic Violence Resources
Domestic Violence Shelters and Services – Provides resources and assistance for domestic and sexual violence.
Domestic Shelters – Provides a list of domestic shelters near you along with providing resources and assistance.
Address
Child Care Aware® of Missouri
955 Executive Parkway Drive
Suite 106
St. Louis, MO 63141
