Effects of Domestic Violence on Children

HOW TO REPORT ABUSE TO DCFS

• Call the DCFS hotline at 1-800-25ABUSE (1-800-252-2973)
• Have the following information, if possible
  Name -- Address -- Date of Birth -- Phone number
  Information about siblings -- Name of Parent/Guardian
• Identify if you are a mandated reported
• State if you think it is an emergency
• State why you have reason to believe the child is abused (report factual information and observations).
• Document the name of the hotline worker and the date and time of your call
• Complete the DCFS report form. This form must be sent to the local DCFS Investigative Unit (Keep a copy for your records).
• Your name is not given to those being investigated. Law protect confidentiality of mandated reporters.