Reporting Abuse

If You Have Concerns About a Child's Safety

Everyone in Ontario has a role in keeping children safe. If you have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child or youth is being abused or neglected, you have a legal responsibility to contact a Children’s Aid Society.

You do not need to have proof or be certain that abuse or neglect has occurred to make a report. If you have concerns, it is important to reach out so trained professionals can assess the situation.

When making a report:

  • You may report anonymously.
  • You are protected from liability when a report is made in good faith and based on reasonable grounds.
  • The duty to report applies to children under 16. You are encouraged to report concerns about youth who are 16 and 17 years old.


How to Contact Us

During regular business hours:

English: 905-525-2012
French: 1-855-550-3571

After hours:

Emergency/After-Hours Line: 905-522-8053

What happens when I call?

When you contact us, a trained intake worker will ask questions to better understand your concerns and determine what support or response may be needed.

Our team will assess the information provided and determine the next steps. In many situations, children remain safely at home while we work with families to address concerns and strengthen supports. When a child cannot safely remain at home, we work with families, caregivers, and community partners to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

What constitutes child abuse or neglect?

You do not need to determine whether abuse or neglect has occurred before making a report. Your role is to share your concerns; our trained professionals will assess the information and determine the appropriate response.

Learn more about the signs of child abuse and neglect and how you can help protect children.

Downloadable resources (PDF)

Child abuse awareness poster emphasizing the importance of reporting suspected abuse.
Poster
Brochure on reporting child abuse and neglect, featuring a child and text outlining responsibilities under Ontario law.
Brochure