Child Protection

If you have concerns about the well-being or safety of a child, contact the Children Services Access Line Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or call 911 if emergency or after normal business hours and weekends.

Home Alone Guidelines 

These guidelines provide direction to parents, guardians and other adult caretakers when considering if a child is able to safely be left alone or care for other children.
Home Alone Guidelines (PDF)

Child Protection Initial Assessment

Child Protection Initial Assessment social workers receive and respond to reports of abuse or neglect of children, conduct initial and family assessments, and develop and implement protective and safety plans if necessary. At this phase of an open case, it is determined whether or not ongoing services are warranted.

The Initial Assessment social workers also provide community education on child protection and mandatory reporting to area school systems and other community partners in an ongoing effort to increase understanding and build collaborative relationships. If you are interested in receiving education on mandated reporting, please contact the agency at 715-246-8260.

Ongoing Child Protection

Ongoing Child Protection social workers provide Case Management services to children in Need of Protection or Services. A complete comprehensive safety assessment is performed to address critical issues to child safety. Service plans are coordinated and collaborated with families and other service providers to promote behavior change within the family. If placement services are warranted, there is significant effort made by the social worker to reunify the child or children with their family. There are times children find permanent placement with a relative or adoptive family.

Ongoing Child Protection services may be provided by order of the court or on a voluntary basis.