Making a CPS Referral:

A Guide for Mandated Reporters

The basis of the video was to demonstrate how to make a report to CPS.  It talked about warning signs and things to consider.  It also demonstrated follow through on the part of CPS.

 History

The video describes the history of child abuse and the awareness of.  It first came to light in 1870 when social worker attempted to make a report for an abused child.  They only place that was available to assist was the Society for Cruelty of Animals. 

The Academy of Pediatrics eventually became involved and acknowledged Battered Child Syndrome. 

The Child Abuse and Prevention Act were established.

If there is dangers to a child’s safety the state may interfere with parental rights. 

Approximately 40,000 reports are made each year. 

 Mandatory Reports

   All States now requires Mandatory reporting of

1. Children at risk
2. Suspected child abuse

Medical Practitioners, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Dentist, School Professionals, Social Service, Coroner, Medical Examiner, Pharmacist, Licensed Child Care workers, Law Enforcement, DSHS, Juvenile Probation/Parole, Hope Center personnel and in Washington State all State Employees are mandated reporters. 

It is a Gross Misdemeanor not to report suspected abuse.

• You must report Reasonable Cause
• Someone having the duty to report does not waive your reporting requirements
• Protects non-accidentally, sexually exploited children
• Mandated reporting helps identify and protect victims of child neglect

Law Enforcement can take custody of a child if there is clear and present danger.  This is a reason to call law enforcement as well as CPS in serious cases. 

 Types of Abuse

1. Non-accidental injuries/Physical
2. Emotional
3. Neglect
4. Sexual

  How to Make a Report

• Most important first step is the raising of a question.  Is there reasonable suspicion? 
• Remind yourself that this is the beginning of the process for parents to learn to care for their children appropriately. 
• If it is a non-caretaker that is responsible for the abuse-call Law Enforcement.
• If in doubt, report.
• Lice and Truancy are non-reportable incidents (although if there are open sores or aggravated medical conditions from complications of untreated lice, that can be reported)

1.       Give your full name.  Reporting anonymously does not meet the mandatory reporting requirements.  You can request that your name remain confidential. 

2.       The name of the person you are making the report on.

3.       His/her DOB.

4.       Their address.

5.       The suspected abuse/injury-be specific.

6.       Report any previous injuries/abuse that you are aware of, or any information that you feel will be helpful to the person investigating.

7.       Name of other relatives that are known to you.

8.       Get the CPS workers name that took the report. 

9.       New incidents require a new report.

What to Expect After Reporting

·         CPS and Law Enforcement have the right to interview a child wherever they may be without the presence of their family. 

CPS designates cases as emerge rent or non-emergent.

Emergent- Child is in imminent danger.  These cases represent 15-20% of the cases.  If you suspect this type of case, you should call law enforcement.   Law enforcement are the only ones that have the authority to take custody of a child.  CPS is required to get a court order, which can take up to 72 hours.  CPS is required to take action within 24 hours of receiving an emergent report.  Extreme cases may result in initial/continued placement out of the home and/or parental rights may be terminated.

Non-emergent-

CPS  will access:

·         The nature and extent of the abuse allegation

·         The level of danger

·         The need for medical attention

·         Parents willingness to cooperate

·         Future likelihood of harm

A caseworker will develop a plan which includes whatever is needed to protect the child, plus treatment for the family at no-cost. 

The case will be reviewed every 90 days.