Officials concerned child abuse may go unreported during isolation

Economic hardships can be a stresser for families, causing increased risk for child abuse.

As families face hardships during the COVID–19 pandemic, officials are worried children might be more at risk for abuse.

“One of the things that is significant is that now that kids aren’t in school, our first line of defense, those school faculty, school personnel aren’t seeing these kids on a daily basis,” Director of Children and Family services, Stephanie Beasley said.

Beasley says reports of child abuse have gone down 16% from the month of February to March but those numbers could be deceiving considering teachers make up 30% of hotline tips.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to connect with your neighbors, friends or family to make sure they are doing okay.

Child abuse can come in many different forms, from physical, sexual, malnourishment to even emotional abuse. Kids will be relying on extra eyes and ears during these hard times.

“The ask I would make for everyone is for families, really work to connect with them, ensure they are feeling supported and have what they need,” Beasley said.

While it may be hard or you may question your suspicion, reporting suspected abuse is encouraged because you may be saving a child’s life.

“Just remember, when you do that you’re asking for a professional to help a child. You aren’t making an allegation, you don’t need proof. You’re expressing your concern and you’re asking for help,” Beasley said.

The child abuse & neglect hotline number is (800) 652-1999 and if you’d like to find more resources, you can do so by visiting the Children and Family Services page.