How can I report child abuse or neglect?

In Virginia, reporting child abuse or neglect is a critical step in protecting the safety and wellbeing of children. If you suspect a child is a victim of abuse or neglect, you should contact the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) hotline at 1-800-552-7096. When you call the hotline, you can expect an operator to answer your call and direct you to the correct resources. All calls to the VDSS hotline are confidential and will not be shared with anyone else. You will have the option to remain anonymous and can provide as much or as little detail as you feel comfortable disclosing. Once you have reported the suspected case of child abuse or neglect, VDSS will investigate the situation. Depending on the situation, VDSS may work with other agencies, such as law enforcement or legal services, in order to ensure the safety of the child. Depending on the outcome, VDSS may also refer the case to a Child Advocacy Law for further investigation. Child Advocacy Law is a specialized field of law dedicated to protecting the rights of children who have been victims of abuse or neglect. If you are concerned about a child or believe that the child needs protection, contact an attorney who specializes in Child Advocacy Law. An attorney can provide you with information on your rights and how best to protect a child who may be a victim of abuse or neglect.

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How can I report child abuse or neglect?

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