REPORTING CHILD ABUSE

MANDATORY REPORTING

In Alabama, mandatory reporters are individuals required by law to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect. According to Alabama Code § 26-14-3, the following professionals are considered mandatory reporters:

  • Teachers, school officials, and employees

  • Child care workers and directors

  • Medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, dentists, and hospital staff

  • Law enforcement officers

  • Social workers and therapists

  • Clergy members (unless information is obtained during a confidential spiritual communication)

  • Mental health professionals

  • Any person called upon to render aid to a child (e.g., first responders)

Even if you’re not a mandatory reporter, if you suspect abuse, you can and should report it. In Alabama, any concerned citizen can call DHR or law enforcement to make a report. Your action could provide safety, healing, and hope for a child in need.

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE

If you suspect abuse or neglect:

Immediately report your suspicion to the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) or local law enforcement.

  • Washington County DHR-  251-847-6100
  • Choctaw County DHR-  205-255-5114
  • Clarke County DHR-  251-275-7001

If a child is in immediate danger call 911.

Importantly, you are not responsible for investigating. Your job is to report; trained professionals will assess and handle the situation. You do not need proof, just a reasonable suspicion.

Be a Voice for a Child

In many cases, a child cannot speak for themselves. They may feel scared, threatened, or ashamed. Some children may not even understand that what they’re experiencing is abuse. That’s why your role is so vital. You may be the only adult who sees the signs, hears their story, or senses that something isn’t right.

Speaking up — even when it’s uncomfortable — can change the course of a child’s life. Your voice might be the only thing standing between a child and continued harm.