Report a child welfare concern
Reporting specific or suspected indications of a risk to a child’s welfare to the Department of Children and Family Services.
How to proceed
- 1
Contact Child Welfare Services
By phone or in person, even outside of business hours (on-call service).
- 2
Describe the facts
Be as specific as possible: child, family, observations, time period.
- 3
Child Welfare Services takes action
Home visit, risk assessment, and, if necessary, implementation of protective measures.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
1 day
Official: max. 1 day
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Report delayed due to uncertainty
- • Specific observations not described
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Anyone (members of the public, professionals) who has information suggesting that a child is being mistreated, neglected, or sexually abused.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 1 day
Success rate
approx. 100.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Report delayed due to uncertainty
- •Specific observations not described
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
Will my report remain anonymous?▼
You may submit an anonymous report. The Youth Welfare Office protects the identity of those who provide information to the extent permitted by law.