Child Protection

DOCFS is legally obligated to investigate families when they have reason to believe that a child is in need of protection due to neglect, abuse, abandonment or exploitation.

Where an allegation of abuse is made, investigations are done in cooperation with the police. Where a child is found to be in need of protection, the agency will remove the child to a place of safety until the family can be safely reunited.

Safety of the child a priority

If it is deemed necessary that a child remain in the Agency’s care after the initial assessment or investigation is completed, the child will be placed in foster care for the time required.