Child Protective Services

Purpose

Since the enactment of Virginia's child abuse and neglect statues in 1975, all valid reports of suspected child abuse and neglect have been investigated by CPS. This singular response focused resources on investigating the reported incident, i.e., gathering the facts to determine if abuse or neglect occurred, identifying persons responsible, and determining the risk of future maltreatment.

Differential Response System

The Differential Response System now allows localities flexibility in responding to reports of abuse and neglect taking into consideration the severity of the report, immediacy of child safety concerns, and family needs. The alternative response to an investigation is a family assessment that focuses resources on conducting a child safety and family needs assessment, building upon family strengths, and providing needed services. Valid reports are thus assigned to receive an Investigation or a Family Assessment Response.

Anonymous Reporting

The name of the person who makes the report will be held confidential by the local department of social services. The name of the person who made the report cannot be revealed unless the person gives permission or the court orders that the name be revealed. You do not have to give your name when you make a report.