Individuals who contact the Children's Aid Society of Oxford County with questions or concerns for a child's well-being, will be connected to trained Child Protection Worker.  Individuals reporting concerns of possible child abuse or neglect to the Society can expect to be asked a number of questions including some basic information about the child(ren) involved and general information about the family.  While some questions may not seem relevant to the concern, Child Protection Workers must obtain as much information as possible about every situation in order to properly assess the situation.  Child Protection Workers, using clear standards and guidelines, then determine the kind of support and service needed to keep children safe in situations involving child maltreatment.   

Once a report has been made and assessed, an investigation may be conducted or the situation may be resolved through telephone contact with the family or through referrals to other community services.  If an investigation is necessary, a Child Protection Worker will see the child(ren) within specified timelines depending on the severity of the concerns.  If a child is in imminent danger, a Child Protection Worker will respond immediately.   

An individual may speak anonymously with a Child Protection Worker regarding questions or concerns that they may have about a child and/or a family.  During this process, individuals have the opportunity to give non-identifying information about the child and/or family and a brief scenario about why they are calling.  Through this process, the Child Protection Worker can recommend whether or not the caller should make a report about their concerns.