Steps to Address System Failure

Childhelp’s Hotline receives many calls a day regarding alleged system failure situations. Often times, callers believe that we are the reporting agency and want us to do something about the situation. These calls mandate not only that we explain the services that Childhelp provides but also that crisis counselors provide the callers with a sense that there is more that can be done.

1. Contact Caseworker assigned to case: A caller who is concerned a report has not been followed through with appropriately can file another report or let a caseworker know that he/she is still concerned.
2. Contact Supervisor of caseworkers: Let the supervisor know they feel the case is not being handled appropriately and that they are still concerned about the children involved. If the case has been closed, they can request that it be reopened. Supervisors can be contacted at the county level of Child Protective Services.
3. Contact the Director of the County: File a verbal report with the Director regarding the dissatisfaction. Request that the case be re-evaluated. The Director can also be found at the county level of Child Protective Services.
4. State Administrative Office of Protective Services: A written letter is probably most effective. Every detail must be chronologically listed as clearly as possible beginning with everything that happened prior to the first report, when the report(s) was made, and what has happened since.
5. Other Options: Contact the state chapter of the National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse (NCPCA). They may be more familiar with state laws/protocols for responding to abuse reports. They may also have referrals to local advocacy groups.
6. Victim Advocacy Groups: In Childhelp’s database, there are several service categories for children advocacy groups. These include Victim Advocacy, Legal Assistance, Child Abuse, etc.
7. Legislators: Callers can contact their local court system to find out whom to write to.
8. District Attorneys: The District Attorney’s office may be able to provide information regarding state laws, children’s and parent’s rights. They are listed under Legal Assistance in the Childhelp database.
9. Police: Callers can involve the police if they have not already been involved.