Child Protective Services
If you have suspicions of child abuse or neglect to report or you are concerned about the
health or safety of a child, please immediately call: The NYS Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720
If you are designated as a mandated reporter, please call 1-800-635-1522
There are five units in two County offices that investigate complaints of abuse and maltreatment or neglect against children under the age of 18 years. Caseworkers initiate investigations within 24 hours after receiving a report from the hotline and are prepared to begin a complete safety assessment of the children involved. Final determinations can take up to 60 days. Office staff can answer questions during regular office hours but actual reports should be made to the hotline.
FAMILY ASSESSMENT RESPONSE
Family Assessment Response (FAR) is a program that responds to concerns about child abuse and neglect by:
- Focusing on child safety
- Avoiding negative labels for parents
- Setting aside the issue of fault
- Working in partnership with parents
- Identifying families’ needs
- Providing services and resources matched to families’ needs
- Building on parents and communities
At the closing of the FAR case, there will be NO determination of “indicated” or “unfounded”.
Receiving a call or visit from Child Protective Services can be frightening, especially if you are already struggling with stressful family issues. Family Assessment Response is based on the belief that parents love their children and want them to be safe. Sometimes parents need help to make that happen. Family Assessment Response can provide that help.
The Family Assessment Response is designed to work with you and your family to provide needed supports, services and resources, while focusing on child safety and your family’s needs.