How to Report Abuse

If you suspect that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, it is better to be safe than sorry in regard to reporting. The most important thing to remember is that you do not have to be certain abuse occurred; that is a job best left to investigators. If you believe that abuse is occurring within a family, by a parent, guardian, or an any other adult responsible for the child, make a report to the Department of Social Services in the county where the child lives. If you have concerns that the child was abused by a non-caregiver or the abuse is a criminal matter, make a report to the law enforcement agency where the alleged offense occurred.

If a child makes a disclosure, do NOT do an in depth interview, instead conduct a Minimal Facts Interview:

Who? Names of victims and suspects
What? What happened
Where? Where did the incident happen
When? When did it happen
Witnesses? Were there any witnesses

The regional intake number for the Pee Dee area is (843) 669-3354 (Press 5). If you are outside of the Pee Dee, please call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD®.