Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse

Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Elaborated 100% At what age can a child be left alone? - Delaware law does not specify an age when a child may be left alone. However, for any aged child, DFS considers factors such as the child's level of functioning, maturity, physical and mental health, disabilities, length of time left alone, and the time of day. Can I be held liable for making a report about child abuse and neglect? - As long as you make a report of child abuse or neglect in good faith you will have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal. (16 Del. C. § 908) Can information about a DFS investigation be shared? - In general, DFS will share information only when there is a signed release of information (informed, time limited consent). However, DFS, law enforcement, the Children's Advocacy Center, Department of Justice, and the Office of the Investigation Coordinator exchange information on families and children when this information is needed to assist an investigation involving a shared client. How do I report child abuse & neglect? - All known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect must be reported to the Division of Family Services (DFS) Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line at . Or make a report online at I. *Online reporting is not available for all types of reports. If my report is accepted for investigation, how soon can I expect DFS to respond? - DFS responds according to the priority level given to each investigation case. - Priority One- Within 24 hours - Priority Two- Within 72 hours - Priority Three- Within 10 days For additional DFS policy information go to: Is there a correlation between substance abuse and child abuse and neglect? - Parental addiction is a significant factor in child abuse and neglect cases, with studies suggesting 40% to 80% of families in the child welfare system are affected by addiction. Additionally, data indicates that abused and neglected children from substance abusing families are more likely to be placed in foster care and to remain there longer than maltreated children from non-substance abusing families. Is there a relationship between child abuse and other types of abuse? - Yes. Studies show that there is a correlation between child abuse, animal abuse, elder abuse and juvenile sex trafficking. Should I call the Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line to report a child that is in crisis? - If you become aware of a child in crisis (i.e. threats of suicide or harm to another person) a report should be made to DPBHS 24-Hour Mobile Response and Stabilization Services at 1-800-969-HELP (4357). This will ensure that the child is connected to the appropriate services immediately. For actual suicide attempts or direct harm/serious injury to self or others, call 911 immediately. What are Delaware's consent laws for children ages 15 and younger? - Position of Trust: Children under the age of 18 CANNOT legally consent to sexual contact with anyone, regardless of age, who is in a position of trust, authority, or supervision over them (e.g. family member, babysitter, coach, teacher, doctor). If you become aware of such a relationship, you MUST report the incident to DFS. Children under 12: CANNOT legally consent to sexual contact with anyone. These cases MUST be reported to DFS.