If YES, call the police. A parent or parent substitute is the abuser in approximately 85 percent of cases. Like other familial abuse, child abuse is usually concealed. Pattern of injuries regularly appearing after weekends, vacations, or other absences. Injuries where the explanation doesn t match the injury.
Child abuse needs to be reported.
Professionals who have frequent contact with children are legally mandated to report, including health practitioners, teachers, child care providers, and Department of Public Social Service employees. However, the law protects anyone from legal liability who reports in good faith. Reports from anyone other than a mandated reporter may be made anonymously. When there is real or immediate danger a beating taking place at that moment, for example call the police. A Children s Services worker will respond within two hours to one week, depending on the apparent urgency of the situation.