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Part of Get help for child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation

Report child abuse

Learn about protecting a child from abuse, neglect or sexual exploitation, and what to say when you report a concern.

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Report child abuse

Call 911 if you or the person you are reporting for is in immediate danger.

Call to report a concern

Call the Child Intervention Provincial Intake Line 24/7 at 1-800-638-0715.

  • Identify the region you are from when prompted. Find your region.
  • You will be placed in a queue and informed that calls are recorded.
  • If busy, you can choose to remain in the queue or leave a message to receive a call back.
  • You can report anonymously or give your name and telephone number. If you provide this information, we never reveal your identity to others. We are available in multiple languages, 24 hours a day.
  • Elsewhere in the world call 00-1-780-427-9485.

Report a concern online – Forms for police and other professionals.

  • Identify the region you are from when prompted. Find your region.
  • You will need to give your name and telephone number. We will never reveal your name to others.
  • If urgent, call the Provincial Intake Line.

When reporting concerns, you will be asked questions about the child or youth and their life. It is okay to report concerns even if you do not have all the information. Some questions you may be asked include the following.

  • Information about yourself

    Talk about:

    • how you know the child and their family
    • how long you have known them
    • what you saw, heard or believe may be happening, or what someone else told you
    • whether the child or family knows you are calling
    • anyone else you know who could provide information about the child or family
    • if you are willing to assist the child and family going forward

  • Information about the child or youth

    Talk about:

    • their name, age, gender, address and phone number
    • any concerns for the child’s immediate safety
    • whether the child or youth is with you or somewhere else right now
    • what other support people the child has in their life
    • whether they go to childcare or school, and the name and location if they do
    • the child’s cultural identity (for example, Indigenous, African, European, and more)
    • any medical conditions, behavioural or development concerns that you are aware of
    • what the child may have told you about the abuse, including when and where they said it happened and how long it has been going on

  • Information about the parents or guardians

    Talk about:

    • the parents’ or guardians’ names, approximate ages and address
    • where they live, work or go to school
    • any information about their family relationships and supports
    • any information about their cultural connections or supports
    • any strengths that they may have
    • whether there are any professionals or agencies supporting the family
    • their ability to understand English or any other communication issues
    • whether they know about the concern or are involved in it
    • anything about the situation or the parents or guardians that would cause a threat for an investigator

  • Information about the sexual exploiter

    Talk about:

    • the sexual exploiter’s name, approximate age and address
    • what they look like
    • the vehicle they drive and the license plate number
    • where they live, work or go to school
    • anything about the situation that would cause a threat for the child, youth or an investigator

Report a concern online

If you are a professional and have concerns for child abuse and neglect that is not urgent, you can complete one of our online referral forms.

For law enforcement

If you are a police officer and have concerns about child abuse and neglect that is not urgent, use the online police referral form.

Fill out the police referral form

For other professionals

If you are a professional who works with and for children and youth (such as teacher, social worker, doctor, lawyer, judge, counsellor), complete and submit the professional online form.

Fill out the professional referral form

Protecting a child

We all have a role to play in keeping children and youth safe and supported. While parents are primarily responsible for their children’s well-being, the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act requires you to report a concern if you believe a child is at risk.

The following resources will help you recognize abuse and what to do when a child tells you they are being abused.

  • Recognizing the signs

    Know how to recognize child sexual exploitation, abuse and neglect.

    Report your concerns if you think a child or youth is at risk.

  • When a child or youth tells

    What you say and do will help the child or youth feel safe and supported. If they tell you they are being neglected, abused or sexually exploited, make sure you:

    • stay calm and react without shock, disbelief, anger, judgement or fear
    • let the child or youth tell you what happened in their own words without interruption
    • listen carefully without asking questions
    • reassure them that it is right to tell, and it is not their fault
    • acknowledge how they are feeling (scared, angry, embarrassed, hurt, sad)
    • help them feel comforted and supported by saying things like:
      • I believe you and I will support you
      • it is okay to feel scared, angry and hurt
      • I will try to help you figure what happens next
      • you are brave for talking about this and it is right to tell someone

    Soon after the child or youth tells you what is happening, find a private place. Write down what you heard and saw. Be sure to:

    • use the same words the child used
    • describe the way the child looked, how they behaved and other things you noticed
    • keep your notes private and secure

Contact

Connect with us to get assistance in your area during business hours:
Children's Services offices

Related

Back to Get help for child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation
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