Friday, January 9, 2009 East Central Illinois

Q&A: Mandated reporting

By: Amy F. Reiter

E-mail Story Printer-friendly

Sunday, June 15, 2008

A few questions about what is mandated by law to be reported:

Who's a mandated reporter?

Just about everyone who works with children in any way: doctors and other medical providers; school and day care staff; social workers; police and clergy; among others. Mandated reporters have a responsibility to call the Department of Children and Family Services if they suspect child abuse or neglect.

What kind of training do mandated reporters receive?

This varies. At a minimum, all mandated reporters must sign a document stating they understand their responsibilities. Free online training is available at www.dcfstraining.org/manrep, and Department of Children and Family Services spokesman Kendall Marlowe said mandated reporters can get free in-person training on the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act.

Do you have to be a mandated reporter to make a call?

No. Anyone can make a call, but mandated reporters legally must make the call.

Should a mandated reporter investigate before he or she calls the hot line?

No. "Callers to the hot line aren't expected to be experts in child welfare. They're just expected to tell us what they've seen and heard so that we have the chance to protect a child before it's too late," Marlowe said.

What happens once a call is made?

The hot line workers, who have specialized training, determine if the information is sufficient to file a report and start an investigation, Marlowe said. Those who make the call are not publicly identified.

Where can I get more information about mandated reporting?

Go to www.state.il.us/dcfs/ and click "Child Protection" on the left-hand bar. To make a call: 800-25-ABUSE.

Other Jon White stories