Protecting Children

Anytime you call us regarding a concern that a child or youth may be harmed, or are at risk of harm, you will be able to speak to a child protection worker who will listen to your concerns to assess and determine if a response is required and what type.

Children’s Aid Societies are regulated by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) and governed by the Ontario Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA).

In Ontario, it is the law to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Section 125 of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, states that members of the public, including professionals who work with children, must promptly report any suspicions that a child is, or may be, in need of protection to a children’s aid society.

Children exhibit signs of maltreatment in many different ways, indications may be physical or behavioural, and can often be subtle. You do not need to prove that a child has been harmed or is unsafe, you just need to let us know about your concerns.

In Ontario, most reported cases of human trafficking involve sexual exploitation, referred to as sex trafficking. In Durham Region, we are actively collaborating with our community partners on raising awareness, identifying risk, intervening early, and providing support and care for survivors. If you suspect that a child or youth is being sexually exploited, call us to report your concerns.