Every Child Deserves to Be Safe – Know the Signs, Take Action

Call 911 if you feel a child is in immediate danger.

If you suspect a child is being abused call 1-877-597-2331.

What are the Kentucky laws regarding reporting?

State law mandates that any individual who knows, or has reasonable cause to suspect, child abuse or neglect must report it to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services or law enforcement authorities.

The law requires reporting when “any person knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, that a child is dependent, neglected, or abused.” You don’t have to be sure. Failure to report is a crime. If you suspect that abuse or neglect has occurred, report it immediately. You should not investigate on your own before making a report.

If the report was made “in good faith,” the person who reports the suspected abuse is immune from legal liability.

What information is needed to report?

  • The child’s name, gender, and approximate age

  • The name of the person believed to be responsible for the abuse or neglect

  • A description of the injury, neglect, or threatened harm to the child

  • The current location of the child; daycare, school, or home address

  • Any immediate risk to the child OR a worker going out to ensure the child’s safety (i.e. guns)

  • The name of the person making the report and identifying information IF the caller wishes to give that information; anonymous reports are accepted and investigated

  • DO NOT attempt to investigate on your own — this could compromise the investigation. Use open-ended questions to gather information needed to report. Use direct quotes from the child if applicable.

What is child abuse?

Physical abuse: Non-accidental physical injury.

Sexual abuse: Any sexual activity involving a child and an adult, such as:

  • Intimate touching, fondling, masturbation, or penetration

  • Exposure to pornography

  • Genital exposure, including via “sexting” or other use of technology

  • Sexual exploitation, including acts related to pornography and prostitution

Neglect: Failure to provide essential protection, care, supervision, food, clothing, shelter, education, or medical care necessary for the child’s health and safety – considering the child’s age.

Dependency: The child is without essential protection, care, etc. not due to an intentional act by the parent.

What are some physical or emotional signs a child may be experiencing abuse?

Children who are experiencing abuse may show physical, emotional, or behavioral signs that something is wrong. While these signs do not always indicate abuse, they should be taken seriously if observed.

Physical Signs of Abuse:

  • Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, fractures, or cuts)

  • Frequent or repeated injuries with questionable explanations

  • Marks or bruises in the shape of an object (belt, hand, cord, etc.)

  • Injuries at different stages of healing

  • Fear of physical contact or flinching when approached

  • Wearing inappropriate clothing (e.g., long sleeves in hot weather) to cover injuries

Emotional & Behavioral Signs of Abuse:

  • Extreme fear, anxiety, or depression

  • Sudden changes in behavior (aggression, withdrawal, clinginess)

  • Excessive crying or fear of going home

  • Low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness

  • Developmental delays or regression (bedwetting, thumb-sucking)

  • Avoiding certain people or places without explanation

  • Unusual knowledge or behaviors related to sexual activity (possible sign of sexual abuse)

If you notice these signs and suspect abuse, trust your instincts and report your concerns to the appropriate authorities. Your voice could help protect a child in need.