Although deciding to report suspected child abuse can be a difficult process, it is an important first step toward protecting a child who might be in danger. To report abuse, call the social services agency where the child lives or where the abuse occurred. Ask for Child Protective Services and give them the name, age and address of the child and a description of what is happening. You are not required to give your name, but it helps. Virginia also maintains a 24 hour hotline for reporting child abuse and neglect.
Prevention is the only sure cure for child abuse and neglect.
Through family education and support programs, the vicious and tragic cycle of abuse can be stopped. This can be done through support groups and parenting programs and through public awareness campaigns. Organizing and supporting early intervention programs like Healthy Families Virginia, that provide continuous support to families from the birth of a child through age five. Training teachers, day care workers, doctors and other professionals about how to prevent abuse and how to recognize and treat abuse when it does occur. Supporting laws and programs that protect children from the pain of abuse.