If you suspect child abuse, what is your responsibility?

When you suspect child abuse, your primary responsibility is to report it directly to child protection authorities. This obligation is grounded in the legal and ethical duty to protect the well-being of the child. Personal support workers and others in similar roles are often mandated reporters, meaning they are legally required to report suspicions of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities, regardless of whether they have concrete evidence.

Reporting ensures that trained professionals who specialize in child protection can investigate the situation properly and provide the necessary support to the child. This approach prioritizes the child’s safety and welfare, which is crucial because delaying action or discussing suspicions with parents could potentially endanger the child further. It also helps prevent any possibility of bias or interference in a formal investigation. Hence, the correct course of action is to report any suspicions to child protection authorities promptly.