Report Abuse

Child Advocacy Center > Resources > Report Abuse

Child abuse is an adult problem, and it will take the adults in our community to keep our children safe. A parent or professional who works with children is often the first person a child talks to about any abuse they may be experiencing. 

If a child discloses abuse to you, it is your responsibility to report the abuse. 

Follow these steps to ensure you have appropriately reported any allegations: 

•  If the child is in danger, call 911.
•  As a parent, understand your child's real and emotional need for your support. Statistics suggest a child's resiliency is directly related to parental support. 
•  As an educator or medical professional, understand and follow your school or clinic's policy for filing a report. Always follow up to ensure a report was made! 
•  Contact your local Child Protection Services. 
  •  In South Dakota, call 1-877-244-0864. Intake Specialists are available Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.
  •  If you are not in South Dakota, find your state's child abuse reporting phone number here. 
•  If reporting an emergency situation before 8am, after 5pm, on the weekends, or during a holiday, please contact your local law enforcement. 
•  If appropriate, Child Protection Services or Law Enforcement will contact a Child Advocacy Center near you to schedule an interview. 

Tips for Handling a Disclosure.

If a child discloses abuse to you, the most important things you can say are: 

•  I believe you. 
•  This isn't your fault.
•  We are going to get help.