Abuse and Neglect

What is Abuse and Neglect | When to Contact Us | Who to Contact | How FACS Responds

Family and Children's Services workers have the responsibility and the authority to investigate allegations and to provide services to protect children.
A Family and Children's Service's worker may, as part of the investigation and plan to protect the child, involve the police and other community agencies.

• Police are contacted when sexual/physical abuse is being investigated
• Interview child privately
• Arrangements for a medical exam are made if needed
• Interview siblings/other relevant parties privately
• Interview parents/non-offending parent
• Interview suspected offender

• A decision made in consultation with a staff supervisor whether the incident is verified then one of the following decisions is made:
• Child is apprehended into care of FACS or
• No further FACS service needed or
• Ongoing FACS services to the family either by agreement or a court order
• Investigations are usually concluded within 30 days, however some may take up to 60 days

• The child is brought into foster or group care after investigation to assure immediate safety
• The FACS and the parent have 30 days to investigate
• FACS has five days to appear before court to address the apprehension