If you Suspect Child Abuse:

If you Suspect Child Abuse, you are mandated to report your suspicions according to North Carolina State Laws. To report suspected abuse, call 911 to speak with a police dispatcher or call the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services at 980.31.HELPS.

Please use the following as a guideline. Each child is unique and so is the process taken to protect them. If you would like to contact a Family Advocate with questions or concerns please call 704.335.2760.

Call 911 immediately if the child is in danger.

• DO make sure the child remains in a safe environment
• DO listen to the child
• DO NOT try to investigate
• DO NOT confront the abuser
• DO make a report

Call 911 to speak with a police dispatcher
or
Call the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services at 980.31.HELPS 

What to Expect

Please use this as a guideline.  Every situation is unique and will be treated as the professionals involved deem it necessary in the best interest of the child.

Before you call:

When making a report of suspected abuse, be prepared to provide the following information:

• Child’s name, date of birth and address
• Brief description of the child
• Any of the following if relevant: current injuries, medical problems or behavioral problems
• Reason for suspicion

After you call:

The Police Department and/or Department of Social Services will coordinate to determine the best plan of protection to the victim and under what time frame.  DSS and/or the police investigator may make a home visit to interview members of the household to gather further information.

If deemed appropriate to proceed with an interview and medical exam at Children’s Advocacy Center of Charlotte find out more information about preparing the child for a visit and the process

If you would like to discuss the reporting process with a Family Advocate, please call Children’s Advocacy Center of Charlotte at 704.335.2760.