Child Abuse Prevention
Did you know 19,572 children were in founded cases of abuse and neglect in South Carolina in last year?
Often, the number of children abused or neglected increases during a national emergency or epidemic. Preventing child abuse and neglect starts with strengthening our families.
Preventing child abuse and neglect
As we deal with COVID-19, what can you do to promote and build the social and emotional well-being of children and families?
What are possible signs of child abuse and neglect?
Signs can include, but are not limited to:
- Bruises in infants or children who cannot crawl or walk on their own.
- Behavioral issues at home and school, poor grades, regressed or sudden changes in behavior.
- Inappropriate dress for the weather.
- Abnormal gait or use of limbs.
- Excuses to avoid going home or to a specific house, fear or avoidance of a particular person or family member.
- Failure to thrive.
- Poor hygiene.
- Advanced sexual knowledge for their age and development.
- Frequent school absences.
Who do I contact to report concerns for abuse or neglect?
Know your resources – visit DSS.SC.gov and click the link “report abuse” to receive contact information for the Department of Social Services in your respective county. Local law enforcement offices can also file reports of potential abuse or neglect and ask DSS to investigate the case.
If you believe a child is in immediate physical danger, please call 911.