North Carolina State Law requires that any person who has cause to suspect that a child is being abused or neglected is required by law to report the situation to the local Department of Social Services in the county in which the child lives or is found. In addition, North Carolina has a law that can penalize professionals who do not report. North Carolina also provides immunity from civil liability and criminal penalty for mandated reporters who report in good faith.
The sooner a family is referred for help, the sooner the child will have an opportunity to live in a more stable, nurturing environment. You can feel good knowing that you have done the right thing for the child. Your intention is to stop the abuse or neglect; your intention is not to hurt anyone, but to stop someone from hurting.
If you choose not to make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, the child may continue to be harmed. In this way, you may assume partial responsibility for the abuse.
[From: Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Manual: Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina]
How to Make a Report
How To Make a Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
Step 1 - Where to Make a Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
A report of suspected child abuse or neglect should be made to the local Department of Social Services (DSS) in the county where the child lives or is found.
Macon County DSS Phone Number: 828-349-2124
Ask for the child protective services intake worker
If after hours call 911 and ask for the social worker on call
Step 2 - How to Make a Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
The report can be made in person, by the telephone, or in writing.
The report can be anonymous. Although, it may be in the child's best interest if you give your name in case more information is needed.
You should give the intake worker your name, address and telephone number. This will help the investigation of the alleged abuse.
Your identifying information is confidential; DSS will not reveal it unless ordered to do so by the court.
Step 3 - What Your Report Should Include
The name and address of the parents or caregivers
The name and age of the child
The present whereabouts of the child if not at the home address
The nature and extent of the injury or condition resulting from the abuse or neglect
Any other information that you believe might be helpful in establishing the need for protective services or court intervention
KIDS Place
... a place where hope begins
KIDS Place
... a place where hope begins
KIDS Inc. | P.O. Box 693 | Franklin, NC 28744
(828)524-3199
