CHILD ABUSE LAWS-CONNECTICUT

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CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILES:

In Connecticut the State Department of Children and Families (DCF) is responsible for investigating and enforcing our state's child protection laws.

DEFINITIONS OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT:

To read DCF's Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect go to: http://www.ct.gov/dcf/cwp/view.asp?a=2556&Q=316956

REPORTING ABUSE AND/OR NEGLECT

Individuals who have reason to suspect that a child is being abused or neglected should make a report to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) at the toll-free, 24 hour Child Abuse and Neglect Careline (1-800-842-2288). Certain social service, mental health, education, and other professionals are mandated reporters, and are therefore required by law to make a report, if in their professional capacity, they have reason to believe a child is being abused or neglected. If you are unsure if a situation is reportable under the law, feel free to call the DCF Child Abuse and Neglect Careline. The social work staff is prepared to discuss the situation with you and help you determine the appropriate course of action.

For more information go to: Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect: http://www.ct.gov/dcf/cwp/view.asp?a=2556&Q=314388

TO FIND PROVIDERS IN CONNECTICUT'S COMMUNITY RESOURCES DATABASE:

• Search by service name: Child Abuse Hotlines

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