North Carolina State Law requires that any person who suspects 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 where the child lives or is found. North Carolina also has a law that can penalize professionals who do not report, and also provides immunity from civil liability and criminal penalty for mandated reporters who report in good faith.

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The sooner a family is referred for help, the sooner the child will have an opportunity to live in a more safe, 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 (the child) 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.

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~Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Manual: Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina

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Step 1 - Where to Make a Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect

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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.

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• Franklin County DSS

(919) 496-5721 or 911

107-A Industrial Drive
Louisburg, NC 27549

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• Granville County DSS

(919) 693-1511 or 911

141 Williamsboro St.

Oxford, NC 27565

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• Vance County DSS

(252) 436-0407 or 911

350 Ruin Creek Rd

Henderson, NC 27536

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• Warren County DSS

(252)-257-5007 or 911

602 W Ridgeway Street
Warrenton, NC 27589

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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.

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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