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Reporting Protocols

Understanding Your Responsibility

Child abuse reporting is critical to protecting vulnerable children in our community. In 2022, 15,516 children in Fresno County were alleged victims of child abuse and neglect. Your report could be the difference between safety and continued harm.

Who Must Report?

California law designates certain professionals as Mandated Reporters who are legally required to report known or suspected child abuse. These include:

  • Teachers, school personnel, and daycare workers
  • Healthcare professionals and mental health practitioners
  • Law enforcement officers
  • Clergy members
  • Social workers
  • Youth organization staff and volunteers
  • Commercial film and photographic print processors
  • Child care providers (required specific training under AB 1207)

Even if you are not a mandated reporter, anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect is encouraged to make a report.

When to Report

A report must be made when a mandated reporter, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their employment:

  • Has knowledge of, or
  • Observes a child who they know or reasonably suspect has been the victim of child abuse or neglect
Reasonable Suspicion Defined

“Reasonable suspicion” means that it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain a suspicion, based upon facts that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing on their training and experience, to suspect child abuse or neglect.

Important AB 2085 Changes (Effective January 2023)

AB 2085 narrowed the definition of general neglect in California. Under this law:

  • A parent/caregiver’s economic disadvantage is not considered general neglect
  • Reports should focus on significant harm or risk to a child’s health, safety, or wellbeing
  • Support and resources should be offered when challenges are related to poverty rather than neglect

How to Make a Report

Step 1: Phone Report (Immediate)

Contact the Fresno County Child Protection Hotline:

  • Phone: (559) 600-8320
  • 24-Hour Emergency: (559) 600-8320
  • For immediate danger: Call 911

When calling, be prepared to provide:

  • Your name and contact information (can be kept confidential from the family)
  • Child’s name, address, present location, and age
  • Parent/guardian’s name and address
  • Nature and extent of the injury or condition
  • Any other relevant information that led to your suspicion
Step 2: Written Report (Within 36 Hours)

After making a phone report, mandated reporters must submit a written report within 36 hours using the Suspected Child Abuse Report (SCAR) Form SS 8572.

  • Download the form: Form SS 8572
  • Complete all sections thoroughly
  • Submit the form to the same agency you called

Where to send the written report:

Fresno County Department of Social Services
Child Welfare Services
P.O. Box 1912
Fresno, CA 93718
Fax: (559) 600-7206
blue ribbon on a white background against child abuse, and symbol in defense of education

Resources for Support

Training Opportunities

FCCAP offers several training programs for professionals and organizations:

  • Mandated Reporter Training (1 hour, customizable)
  • Mandated Reporter AB 1207 (specific for childcare providers)
  • Stewards of Children™ (evidence-based prevention program)

Contact FCCAP to schedule training:

Support Services
  • Family Resource Centers: Provide support, resources, and referrals to families
  • Parenting Programs: Evidence-based programs to strengthen family skills
  • Mental Health Services: Counseling for children who have experienced trauma

Remember

“The world is a dangerous place not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.” – Albert Einstein

Three Keys Steps to Help :

  1. Educate yourself and others on child abuse and its impact.

  2. Advocate for policies and funding that prioritize child welfare.

  3. Donate time, money, or skills to prevention efforts.

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