CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES-INVESTIGATIONS

When should a Children’s Protective Services report be made?

Reporting child abuse or neglect is the first step in protecting a child from further harm.  If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, you should file a report with your local Department of Social Services.  If it is an emergency, contact your local law enforcement agency.  Your information can be given anonymously, if desired.

How is child abuse/neglect defined?

When children are abused, they have been seriously hurt, either physically or emotionally.  This may also include any type of sexual abuse.

When children are neglected, they have not received proper care or supervision.  This may include children who do not receive necessary medical attention, who are inadequately fed or clothed, or who are inappropriately disciplined.  Neglect also includes children who are left alone for long periods of time, or are living in a dangerous environment due to substance abuse by their caretakers.

What services are available for children exhibiting dangerous behavior?

A parent or caretaker can call Law Enforcement, the Office of Juvenile Justice or Southeastern Center for Mental Health, depending on the behavior that the child is exhibiting.

Why do you have to talk to my children alone?

If a child has the capacity for speech, the child must be interviewed, preferably in private and, under no circumstances, in the presence of the person or persons alleged to have caused or allowed abuse or neglect.

Do you have the right to talk to my children without my permission?

Yes.  If any person obstructs or interferes with an investigation, the director may file a petition requesting an order directing the person to cease such obstruction or interference.  Obstruction or interference includes refusing to allow the social worker to interview the child in private.

Who is the reporter?  I have the right to know.

The reporter’s name remains confidential unless the department is court ordered to release that information.

How do I report that a child is being abused or neglected?

Call New Hanover County Department of Social Services during normal business hours at 798-3420.  After hours, on weekends and holidays, call 911.

How old does my child have to be before I can leave him alone?

Fire code law requires a child to be 8 yrs. old to be left alone.  Other than that it is dependent on the maturity of child,  the safety plan for emergency and length of time the child is alone.  We assess each situation on a case by case basis.

Can you come get my out of control teen?  I can’t handle him/her anymore.

Parents are responsible for their children until they reach age 18.  We will be happy to review counseling resources with you.

How do I get emancipated?

For a child under age 18 to be emancipated, a petition must be filed with the Clerk of Court and a hearing held to determine whether there is evidence to support emancipation.  A child must be self-supporting in order to be emancipated.

As a reporter of abuse or neglect, can I be anonymous and still get information as to the outcome of an investigation?

No, we can only respond to you if you are willing to give your name.  Reporters names are confidential and can only be released by court order.