How to Report Child Abuse in Oregon
Reporting child abuse or neglect is a critical step in protecting children and ensuring their well-being. Here are detailed steps to take if you reside in Oregon and suspect or have evidence of child abuse or neglect:
Recognize the Signs
Physical Abuse:
Unexplained bruises, burns, or welts.
The child appears frightened of the parents and protests or cries when it's time to go home.
Shies away from touch, flinches at sudden movements or seems afraid to go home.
Wears inappropriate clothing to cover up injuries, such as long-sleeves on hot days.
Emotional Abuse:
Excessively withdrawn, fearful, or anxious about doing something wrong.
Shows extremes in behavior, extremely compliant or extremely demanding; extremely passive or extremely aggressive.
Doesn't seem to be attached to the parent or caregiver.
Acts either inappropriately mature (taking care of other children) or inappropriately infantile (rocking, thumb-sucking, tantrums).
Sexual Abuse:
Trouble walking or sitting.
Displays knowledge or interest in sexual acts inappropriate to their age or even seductive behavior.
Makes strong efforts to avoid a specific person, without an obvious reason.
Doesn't want to change clothes in front of others or participate in physical activities.
An STD or pregnancy, especially under the age of 14.
Neglect:
Clothes are ill-fitting, filthy, or inappropriate for the weather.
Hygiene is consistently bad (unbathed, matted, and unwashed hair, noticeable body odor).
Untreated illnesses and physical injuries.
Is frequently unsupervised, left alone, or allowed to play in unsafe situations and environments.
Is frequently late or missing from school.
Talk to the Child
If you are talking with the child, please be sure to remain calm and supportive. You don't want to scare the child or affect their willingness to discuss things or ask for help. If it's appropriate and you're in a position to do so, gently ask the child about the situation. Please make sure that your questions are open-ended and non-leading. It's important not to press the child for details or suggest that something is wrong.
Document Your Observations
Write down exactly what you observed or what was reported to you. Include dates, times, exact words used, and any other relevant information. If there are physical signs of abuse, document them with descriptions. Do not take photographs unless you are a medical or law enforcement professional.
Report Immediately
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has a phone number you can call to report abuse or neglect of a child or adult in Oregon. That contact is 855-503-SAFE (7233).
When reporting to ODHS, you will talk to a Child Welfare Screener so be sure to be ready to provide information about the child such as name, age, and location (if you know).
The Screener will ask about your concerns, and anything said specifically by the child. What you share is confidential. Other ways to report abuse include calling any law enforcement agency at 911. You are not required to provide proof.
Understand Confidentiality and Protection
In many jurisdictions, reporters can remain anonymous to protect their identity. The law protects individuals who report suspected abuse in good faith, even if the suspicions are later proven unfounded.
Follow Up
If possible, follow up on your report to ensure that it's being investigated. Keep a record of all communications regarding the report. If you are a mandatory reporter (like a teacher, doctor, or social worker), ensure you understand and comply with all legal responsibilities regarding follow-up.
Offer Support
If you know the child well and are in a position to do so, offer emotional support and assurance. Respect the privacy and confidentiality of the child and family involved.
Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about child abuse prevention and awareness of available resources in your community. Advocate for child safety and educate others about recognizing and reporting abuse—because every child has the right to be safe.