Child Abuse Hotline

To take reports of abuse and neglect. The protective services begin when a report of abuse or neglect is made to the Child Abuse Hotline. Social workers take reports and if criteria is met, the Department of Children & Family Services field office is notified and undertakes an investigation to assist the family in the situation. 24-hour answering service; Serve all of Illinois. Anyone may report suspected child abuse or neglect. State law mandates that workers in certain professions must make reports if they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect. Child abuse is the mistreatment of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caretaker, someone living in their home or someone who works with or around children. The mistreatment must cause injury or put the child at risk of physical injury. Neglect happens when a parent or responsible caretaker fails to provide adequate supervision, food, clothing, shelter or other basics for a child.