Duty to Report

Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility.

In Ontario, it is the law to report any suspicions of child abuse or neglect to a Children’s Aid Society—or to contact the police if someone is in immediate danger.

Section 125 of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA) clearly states that every person, including professionals who work with children, has a legal and moral duty to promptly report any concern that a child or youth is or may be in need of protection. This includes situations of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, or risk of harm.

Children’s Aid Societies are responsible for investigating and assessing reports of abuse and neglect. Reports are never ignored—each one is assessed carefully and confidentially to determine what support, protection, or services may be needed.

Report it!