JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, the Department of Social Services, and the Department of Health and Senior Services are urging Missourians to continue to report child and adult abuse and neglect.
According to a release from the office of Attorney General Schmitt DHSS hasn’t seen a particular decline in hotline intake, but it may be tougher for family members to notice signs of abuse as social distancing measures are followed. As it relates to child abuse and neglect reporting, a DSS comparison of the first two and last two weeks of March 2020, indicate a 47 percent drop in the daily average number of week day (Monday through Friday) reports to the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
“While Missourians are staying at home, sometimes away from elderly relatives, it may be tougher to see potential abuse. Additionally, mandatory reporters of child abuse like teachers aren’t regularly around students, making reporting of child abuse and neglect more difficult” said Attorney General Schmitt. “Despite the circumstances we find ourselves in, Missourians should be especially vigilant in looking out for their relatives or neighbors. If you see something suspicious, please report it.”
“The Department of Social Services is extremely concerned the unprecedented pressures and social isolation parents and families are experiencing are elevating the risk for child abuse and neglect for Missouri children,” said Jennifer Tidball, Acting Director, Department of Social Services. “We deeply appreciate the Attorney General’s urgent message to every Missourian to be aware and always report concerns and suspected child abuse or neglect.”
“Although it is a time when we need to physically distance ourselves from one another, it is important that you still check in on friends, family or neighbors, especially the elderly who seem to be most vulnerable during this pandemic,” said Dr. Randall Williams, DHSS Director. “Call your loved ones and make sure they’re doing okay, both physically and emotionally during these stressful and lonely times.”
To report child abuse and neglect, individuals should call 1-800-392-3738 or visit https://dss.mo.gov/cd/keeping-kids-safe/can.htm for more information.
To report adult abuse and neglect, individuals should call 1-800-392-0210 or report online at www.health.mo.gov/abuse.