​Mandated Reporters
Most people who work with children in any capacity are required by Illinois law to call the DCFS Hotline anytime they believe a child may have been abused. This includes most people who work with children or whose jobs make them responsible for public safety or wellbeing. They are:
- Medical personnel
- School and Child Care workers and their assistants
- Law Enforcement Officers
- Those who work in State Agencies
- Mental Health treatment providers
- Coaches and park district program workers
- Clergy
Click here for a more detailed list of mandated reporters
A mandated reporter must report suspected instances of child abuse or neglect. Failure to do so is a criminal offense. Simply reporting suspicions to a superior does not satisfy legal requirements.
How should mandated reporters make reports?
Call as soon as possible:
- 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-242-2873)
- 1-800-358-5117 (TTY)
- (217) 524-2606 (outside Illinois)
Mandated reporter training
Click here for the Illinois DCFS mandated reporter online training.
For more
Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act
