Central Alberta Child and Family Services Authority protects all children and teens who are 17 years and younger who are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect.

What do I do if I suspect child abuse and/or neglect?

• If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call one of our Service Delivery Offices or if it is after hours(8:15am - 4:30pm), please call 1-800-387-KIDS(5437).  If you have reasonable and probable grounds to believe that a child at risk, the Child, Youth & Family Enhancement Act requires you to report your concern.
• When making a report, your name will be kept confidential. No legal action can be taken against you unless the reporting is done maliciously or without grounds. Failure to report child abuse or neglect could result in a fine, imprisonment or both.
• It's your duty to report.

Next Steps

The criteria for finding a child in need of intervention has been strengthened under the Child Youth and Family Enhancement Act. All reports received by the District Office must be assessed to determine if a child is in need of intervention. The Act provides the legislative base to determine the range of services, reflecting the underlying principles of the matters to be considered, emphasizing decision making in the best interests of the child, the importance of parental responsibility, and ensuring stability and permanence for the child.

• After a call is received and screened for assignment, a Central Alberta Child and Family Services Caseworker will meet the child and/or family to determine if further intervention or support is required.
• If appropriate, services may be offered to the parent, family and/or child, which may include in-home support or professional counselling.
• In a case where the child cannot remain in the home, the caseworker must develop a plan for the child. If the removal is temporary, the plan must include helping not only the child, but also the family to overcome difficulties they have caring for the child. If the removal is permanent, a plan for adoption or other permanent arrangement must be developed.

  Note: In situations involving confirmed sexual or physical abuse, the police are notified and when possible, joint interviews by the police and worker will be arranged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is child abuse?
A: The main kinds of abuse are physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect.
Read more about the definitions of child abuse.

Q: How do I know if a child is being abused?
A: Trust your instincts; if you have a suspicion or a 'gut feeling' that a child is being abused or neglected, please call one of our District offices.
Read more about specific indicators of child abuse.

Q: If I report my neighbours for neglecting their child, will they find out who called?
A: When you make a report, your name will be kept confidential. No legal action can be taken against you unless the reporting is done maliciously or without grounds. If you fail to report your concerns, you may be guilty of an offence and face a fine or imprisonment.