When you call with a question or concern for a child’s well-being, you will speak to a Child Protection Worker to discuss the details of your concerns and you may be contacted for further information.

The worker may ask you to identify yourself, but for non-professionals, like a neighbour or friend, this is not required. Should you identify yourself, HSCA will do its best to protect your identity. Professionals who work with children, such as teachers and doctors, are encouraged to identify themselves.

Responses to a call from the community can include a reach out to the family to connect them to supports and resources, or to open a child protection investigation.  Sometimes the information doesn’t warrant those responses and the information is simply documented and will be reviewed in the future should other worries or needs come forward.