Become a Mandatory Reporter Today!
In Oregon, the responsibility of protecting our children does not rest solely on those with specific job titles. While certain professions—such as teachers, doctors, social workers, and law enforcement—are legally mandated to report suspected child abuse, the reality is that anyone in Oregon, regardless of their occupation or workplace, can and should take on the role of a mandatory reporter. This is not just a legal obligation; it must become a moral standard for all who desire a healthy and supportive society.
Child abuse and neglect are tragedies that can occur behind closed doors, often hidden from plain sight. This is not only because most persecutors are people whom the child knows, but because it’s easier to victimize children in private locations. The signs may be subtle—a change in behavior, unexplained injuries, or a child's reluctance to go home. It is in these moments that a caring and vigilant community becomes the first line of defense. Every Oregonian has the potential to be that watchful eye, that concerned voice, and that courageous individual who steps forward to report suspected abuse. By doing so, you could be the difference between a child enduring ongoing harm and a child receiving the support they need to develop into a healthy and functional person in society.
Oregon law supports and protects anyone who reports child abuse in good faith, ensuring that their concerns are taken seriously and that they cannot be retaliated against. This protection allows every individual to act with confidence, knowing that their role in potentially saving children is both supported and encouraged. Even if your job does not require you to be a mandatory reporter, embracing this responsibility is a powerful act of compassion and cooperation with our most vulnerable members of society.
Imagine the impact we can have if each of us chooses to report when we suspect that a child is in danger. The ripple effect of such actions can be profound, potentially saving a life and altering the course of a child's future! Of course it is unrealistic to believe that every person will become a mandatory reporter, but YOU can, and that means we are making a difference. By choosing to speak up, you are not only protecting a child from immediate harm but also fostering a community that values the safety and well-being of all its members.
One may say that mandatory reporting does not protect a person after being released from hospital care; however, there are many resources that assist people in these cases! Juliette’s House offers quality trauma recovery services, while other places around Oregon offer safe housing, domestic violence support, and financial or family resources. Check out this resource sheet (english / spanish) to learn more about how you can receive adequate assistance.
To equip yourself with the knowledge and confidence needed to act, we encourage you to watch the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) mandatory reporting training video. This resource provides essential information on recognizing signs of abuse, understanding your role as a reporter, and the steps to take if you suspect a child is in danger. The training is accessible to everyone and is a valuable tool in our collective effort to protect children. By choosing to report suspected abuse, you are taking a stand for the children in our community, ensuring they have the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment. Your actions could save a life—let that be your motivation to get involved, be informed, and make a difference.
Because all children have the right to be safe.
Take action today: Watch the ODHS mandatory reporting training video and become a protector of Oregon's children.